JCSM Shareware Collection 1993 November/JCSM Shareware Collection - 1993-11.iso/cl060/vposjr.lzh/MANUAL.DOC

Text File | 1993-09-26 | 267.0 KB | 5,867 lines

                           VisualPOS Jr/VisualPOS

                                Version 1.1


                        The Ultimate Retail Solutions
                                   with
                 Complete Point Of Sale and Retail Management



                                User's Manual
                                =============



                             COPYRIGHT
                             =========

VisualPOS Jr. and VisualPOS are copyright (c) 1992-1993 and
trademarks of WIZ-TEC Computing Technologies Inc. All rights
reserved.

Information in this document is subject to change without
notice. WIZ-TEC Computing Technologies Inc. assumes no liability
or responsibility for errors or omissions in any documents
WIZ-TEC provided, either printed or file on disk, including this
manual. Neither is any liability assumed for damages resulting
from the use of the information contained in these documents.

No part of this publication may be reproduced or modified in any
form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including
photocopying, recording or by any other information storage and
retrieval system, without permission in writing from WIZ-TEC
Computing Technologies Inc. Calgary, ALBERTA.

VisualPOS Jr., VisualPOS, VisualPOS Fuel, VisualPOS+ Ltd.,
VisualPOS+, VisualPOS+ Fuel, WizLINK, and WizLINK+ are copyright
and trademarks of WIZ-TEC Computing Technologies Inc. All rights
reserved.

PIE is a trademark of Progressive International Electronics Inc.
All other products and names used in the documents are used for
identification purpose only and are trademarks of their
respective companies.



                     SOFTWARE LICENSE AGREEMENT
                     ==========================

VisualPOS Jr and VisualPOS are copyright (c) 1992-1993 and
trademarks of WIZ-TEC Computing Technologies Inc. All rights
reserved world-wide. WIZ-TEC Computing Technologies Inc., herein
after called WIZ-TEC, is a corporation registered at the
province of ALBERTA, CANADA.

VisualPOS Jr and VisualPOS, herein after called the SOFTWARE, are
two different software packages. This License Agreement applies
to both of them, and binds you to the enclosed SOFTWARE that you
purchased and thus entitled to.

This is a legal agreement between you, the end user, and WIZ-TEC
Computing Technologies Inc. By installing and/or using the
SOFTWARE, you fully understand and agree to be bound by all the
terms and conditions of this License Agreement.

The SOFTWARE is NOT for sale. The purchase payment is for a
non-transferable license to use the software as described in
this license agreement. You must register your copy of the
SOFTWARE and obtain an authorization code from, and only from,
the authorized WIZ-TEC personnel by phone or fax after the full
payment. The license you purchased is for single user only. You
must purchase the according licenses for multi computers or
computer terminals, registers, or network stations.

1. GRANT OF LICENSE.
--------------------
WIZ-TEC grants to you, and you accept, a non-exclusive license
to use one copy of the enclosed SOFTWARE on a single computer or
on a single terminal connected to a single computer. You may not
network the SOFTWARE or otherwise use it on more than one
computer or computer terminal at the same time. You may not
duplicate or distribute this SOFTWARE in any form under any
condition without obtaining a written license agreement from
WIZ-TEC, other than making one (1) copy solely for backup
purpose.

2. COPYRIGHT AND WIZ-TEC'S RIGHTS.
----------------------------------
You acknowledge and agree that the SOFTWARE is owned by WIZ-TEC,
protected under the copyright law, international treaty
provisions and trade secret laws of general applicability. You
further acknowledge and agree that all rights, title, and
interest in and to WIZ-TEC are and shall remain with WIZ-TEC.
Any use of the SOFTWARE in violation of Copyright law or the
terms of this limited license will be prosecuted to the best of
our ability.

3. OTHER RESTRICTIONS.
----------------------
You may not change or modify any content of the SOFTWARE. You
may not reverse-engineer, disassemble, translate, modify,
decompile or create derivative works of the SOFTWARE. You
acknowledge that the SOFTWARE includes certain trade secrets and
confidential information, all of which is the copyrighted
intellectual property of WIZ-TEC Computing Technologies Inc. You
may not rent, lease, or sub-license the SOFTWARE. But you may
transfer the SOFTWARE on a permanent basis provided you retain
no copies of either the SOFTWARE or its documentation, and the
recipient agrees to the terms and conditions of this License
Agreement. All rights not expressly granted here are reserved to
WIZ-TEC.

4. TERMS.
---------
This License Agreement is effective and shall remain in force
until terminated. The License Agreement will be terminated if
you fail to comply with any term or condition of this Agreement.
Upon any such termination you will either destroy or return to
WIZ-TEC the original and any copies of the SOFTWARE, and related
documentation.

5. LIMITED WARRANTY, DISCLAIMER, AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY.
-------------------------------------------------------------
WIZ-TEC warrants the physical diskette(s) and physical
documentation provided with SOFTWARE to be free of defects in
materials and workmanship for a period of ninety days from the
date of registration. If WIZ-TEC Computing Technologies Inc.
receives notification within the warranty period of defects in
materials or workmanship, and such notification is determined by
WIZ-TEC Computing Technologies to be correct, WIZ-TEC will
replace the defective diskette(s) or documentation.

The person using the SOFTWARE bears all the risk as to the
quality and performance of the SOFTWARE.  The entire and
exclusive liability and remedy for breach of this Limited
Warranty shall be limited to replacement of defective
diskette(s) or documentation and shall not include or extend to
any claim for or right to recover any other damages, including
but not limited to, loss of profit, data, or use of the
SOFTWARE, or special, incidental, or consequential, indirect,
exemplary, damages or other similar claims, or any other
reasons, even if WIZ-TEC Computing Technologies Inc. has been
specifically advised of the possibility of such damages.  In no
event will WIZ-TEC Computing Technologies Inc.'s liability for
any damages to you or any other person ever exceed the lower of
suggested list price or actual price paid for the license to use
the SOFTWARE, regardless of any form of the claim.

WIZ-TEC Computing Technologies Inc. MAKES AND LICENSEE RECEIVES
NO OTHER WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, WHETHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED,
INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE,
FUNCTIONALITY, DATA INTEGRITY, OR PROTECTION. ALL OTHER
WARRANTIES ARE EXPRESS DISCLAIMED.

6. GOVERNING LAW.
-----------------
The Agreement shall be constructed and enforced in accordance
with the laws of the PROVINCE OF ALBERTA.  Any action or
proceeding brought by either party against the other arising out
of or related to this Agreement shall be brought only in a
PROVINCE or FEDERAL COURT of competent jurisdiction located in
CALGARY, ALBERTA.

7. SEVERABILITY.
----------------
Should any term of this License Agreement be declared void or
unenforceable by any court of competent jurisdiction, such
declaration shall have no effect on the remaining terms hereof.



                       TABLE  OF  CONTENTS
                       ===================

CHAPTER 1  INTRODUCTION
    1.1 About VisualPOS Jr and VisualPOS
    1.2 System Requirements
    1.3 Operating Requirements
    1.4 Differences between VisualPOS Jr and VisualPOS
    1.5 VisualPOS Jr/VisualPOS gas pump control
    1.6 VisualPOS Jr and VisualPOS brief feature list
    1.7 Other WIZ-TEC Software Products
    1.8 How to read this manual
CHAPTER 2  GETTING STARTED
    2.1 Introduction
    2.2 Installing VisualPOS Jr/VisualPOS
    2.3 DOS System Files
    2.4 VisualPOS Jr programs and files
        2.4.1 EXE, COM and VVD programs
        2.4.2 Database and database support files
        2.4.3 System and setup files
        2.4.4 Other system files
        2.4.5 Additional VisualPOS system files
        2.4.6 Run time generated data files
    2.5 Before you start
    2.6 Start Up and Log On
    2.7 Quick Tour
    2.8 Using Menus
    2.9 Mode Indicator
    2.10 Function Keys
    2.11 Forms
    2.12 Pick/Choice Lists
CHAPTER 3  GENERAL SETUP AND CONFIGURATION
    3.1 Introduction
    3.2 User Registration Information
    3.3 System Configuration
    3.4 Currency & Credit Cards
    3.5 Departments & Sub-departments
    3.6 Quantities/Split Prices
    3.7 Taxes Setup
    3.8 Printer Setup
    3.9 Messages
    3.10 Auto Batch Processing
        3.10.1 Auto Batch Setup
        3.10.2 Batch Execution
CHAPTER 4  POS KEY AND MACRO SETUP
    4.1 Unshifted Keyboard
    4.2 Shifted Keyboard
    4.3 Control Keyboard
    4.4 Alternate Keyboard
    4.5 PREH84 POS Keyboard
    4.6 Define Key Macros
CHAPTER 5  DATABASE
    5.1 Inventory database
        5.1.1 Introduction
        5.1.2 Add Inventory Items
        5.1.3 View/Edit/Delete Inventory Item
        5.1.4 Adjust Inventory Items
        5.1.5 Item # Field
        5.1.6 Description Field
        5.1.7 UPC Field
        5.1.8 Sub-department & Department Field
        5.1.9 Color Field
        5.1.10 Size Field
        5.1.11 Part # Field
        5.1.12 Vendor # Field
        5.1.13 Alternate Vendor #1 and #2 Fields
        5.1.14 Tax 1 (Federal Tax, GST for Canada) Field
        5.1.15 Tax 2 (PST or Provincial Sales Tax) Field
        5.1.16 Tax Three & Four Fields
        5.1.17 Scale Field
        5.1.18 Note Field
        5.1.19 Current Unit Cost Field
        5.1.20 Average Unit Cost To Date Field
        5.1.21 Price #1 Field
        5.1.22 Price #2 Field
        5.1.23 Price #3 Field
        5.1.24 Start Promotional Price #3 Field
        5.1.25 Stop Promotional Price #3 Field
        5.1.26 Gross Margins Field
        5.1.27 Split Price Codes Field
        5.1.28 Quantity Codes Field
        5.1.29 Deposits Field
        5.1.30 Minimum/Maximum On Hand and Reserved Fields
        5.1.31 Units On Hand, at Cost or at Retail Field
        5.1.32 Units On Order, at Cost or at Retail Field
        5.1.33 Sold This Month, at Cost or at Retail Fields
        5.1.34 Sold This Year, at Cost or at Retail Fields
    5.2 Open Items -- Sub-Department
        5.2.1 Introduction
        5.2.2 Item # Field
        5.2.3 Tax Fields Field
        5.2.4 Approximate Gross Margin % Field
        5.2.5 Sales Table Field
        5.2.6 Open Item Keys Field
    5.3 Customer database
        5.3.1 Introduction
        5.3.2 Add Customer
        5.3.3 View/Edit/Delete Customer
        5.3.4 Customer # Field
        5.3.5 Last & First Name Field
        5.3.6 Tax Exemption # Field
        5.3.7 Type & Group Field
        5.3.8 Discount Rate Field
        5.3.9 Price Code Field
        5.3.10 Taxes Field
        5.3.11 Credit Fields Field
        5.3.12 Purchase Table Field
    5.4 Vendor database
        5.4.1 Add Vendors
        5.4.2 View/Edit/Delete Vendors
        5.4.3 Vendor # Field
        5.4.4 Name Field
chapter 5  Operator database
    5.1 Add Operators
    5.2 View/Edit/Delete Operators
    5.3 Operator # Field
    5.4 Last & First Name Field
    5.5 Logon # Field
CHAPTER 6  POINT OF SALE MODULE
    6.1 Introduction
    6.2 Log On
    6.3 Register Mode
    6.4 Register Screen Layout
    6.5 The four vertical columns are status indicators
    6.6 Getting Help in POS
    6.7 How Does the POS works
    6.8 Identifying Items Sold
    6.9 POS Functions
        6.9.1 Amount/Enter
        6.9.2 Auto Price
        6.9.3 Backspace
        6.9.4 Cash Sales
        6.9.5 Change Price Level
        6.9.6 Charge Account Sales
        6.9.7 Cheque Sales
        6.9.8 Clear
        6.9.9 Coupons
        6.9.10 Credit Card Sales
        6.9.11 Currency Tenders and Conversions
        6.9.12 Customer #
        6.9.13 Decimal
        6.9.14 Deposits
        6.9.15 Discounts
        6.9.16 Item Look Up
        6.9.17 Keylock
        6.9.18 Auto Batch Execution
        6.9.19 Log On/Log Off
        6.9.20 Macros
        6.9.21 No Sale
        6.9.22 Open Department
        6.9.23 Open Items
        6.9.24 Package Sales
        6.9.25 Paid Out (Pay Bills From Cash, or Cashier Loan)
        6.9.26 Price Override
        6.9.27 Printing Receipts
        6.9.28 Quantity
        6.9.29 Receipt Advance
        6.9.30 Receiving Account Payments
        6.9.31 Reference Entries
        6.9.32 Return Items
        6.9.33 Scrolling Display
        6.9.34 Scrolling Journal
        6.9.35 Subtotal
        6.9.36 Tax Override
        6.9.37 UPC
        6.9.38 Validating Documents
        6.9.39 Voiding Items
        6.9.40 Voiding Transactions
        6.9.41 Weighing Items (Scale)
        6.9.42 Zero & Double Zero (0 & 00)
        6.9.43 X Report
        6.9.44 Z Report
        6.9.45 Training Mode
CHAPTER 7  EXACT pump control
    7.1 Introduction
    7.2 How Does The System Works
    7.3 Viewing/Scrolling Pump Information
    7.4 Viewing/Scrolling Tank Information
    7.5 [WASH] car wash authorization
    7.6 [PMUP] pump authorization
    7.7 [PMZR] pump status reset/zero
    7.8 [PMTR] pump sale
    7.9 [PMOK] pump auto process
    7.10 EXACT Pump End Of Day
CHAPTER 8  PIE pump control
    8.1 Introduction
    8.2 How Does The System Works
    8.3 [AUTH] and [PATH] pump authorization
    8.4 [LOOK] pump lookup/scroll
    8.5 [STOP] and [RESM] pump suspend and resume
    8.6 [CERR] pump clear error
    8.7 [READ] pump read status
    8.8 [PPU] pump send PPU
    8.9 [PSET] pump view setup
    8.10 Set Authorization Limits
    8.11 [REST] pump controller reset
    8.12 [METR] and [VMTR] pump reading totals
    8.13 [SAVE] pump stack/save transaction
    8.14 [$TRN] and [XTRN] pump ring transaction
    8.15 [$CLR] and [XCLR] pump clear transaction
    8.16 [VRPT] and [VADJ] view report
CHAPTER 9  Gas Pump Setup and Report
    9.1 Introduction
    9.2 Setup procedures for the EXACT
    9.3 Setup procedures for the PIE
    9.4 Pump transaction and adjustment report
CHAPTER 10  POS Extended POS functions
    10.1 VisualPOS End Of Day float control
    10.2 Add/Edit/Delete Inventory in POS
    10.3 Add/Edit/Delete Customer in POS
    10.4 French and Foreign Language
    10.5 POS Invoicing
CHAPTER 11  Utilities and General Maintenance
    11.1 Introduction
    11.2 Backup and Restore
    11.3 Deleting files
    11.4 Zero Totals
    11.5 Adjustment Journal
CHAPTER 12  Database Custom Reporting
    12.1 Introduction
    12.2 Custom Reports
    12.3 Create Report and Print Reports
    12.4 View Report
    12.5 Sales Reports
    12.6 Daily Sales Report
    12.7 Operator Sales Report
    12.8 Z Report
    12.9 Tax Report
CHAPTER 13  Printing Labels
    13.1 Introduction
    13.2 Label Setup
    13.3 Inventory Labels
    13.4 Customer/Vendor/Operator Mailing Labels
CHAPTER 14  Advanced Topics
    14.1 Rebuilding Indexes with REBUILD.EXE
    14.2 VisualPOS Programmable Invoicing script file
        14.2.1 Variable Pasting Command -- free format
        14.2.2 Variable Pasting Command -- line transaction
        14.2.3 Control and Formatting Command
    14.3 Importing Inventory/Customer with VPIMPORT.EXE
    14.4 Resetting VisualPOS Jr to Single User with VPRESET.EXE
    14.5 Check and fix database float number with VPCHECK.EXE
    14.6 Check and repair database records with VPREPAIR.EXE
    14.7 Exporting database to ASCII with VPREPORT.EXE
    14.8 Setting up Network
CHAPTER 15  Putting it all together
    15.1 Making Decisions
        15.1.1 How many VisualPOS Jr registers
        15.1.2 Open department register or full inventory management
        15.1.3 POS devices
        15.1.4 Inventory labelling
        15.1.5 Organizing your department
        15.1.6 Step by step
    15.2 Getting support and service
    15.3 Sample procedures and topics
        15.3.1 Begin Of Shift -- Cashier
        15.3.2 End Of Shift -- Cashier
        15.3.3 Begin Of Day -- Cashier
        15.3.4 End Of Day -- Cashier or Store Manager
        15.3.5 End Of Day -- Store Manager or Owner
        15.3.6 End Of Week -- Store Manager or Owner
        15.3.7 Month End Report -- Store Manager or Owner
        15.3.8 Year End Report -- Store Manager or Owner
        15.3.9 Gas Pump Control End of Day procedure
        15.3.10 Gas Pump Control End of Week or Month procedure
        15.3.11 Multi register update
        15.3.12 Files to be backed up and procedures
APPENDIX A   POINT OF SALE FUNCTIONS
APPENDIX B   OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT SETUP



                      CHAPTER 1  INTRODUCTION
                      =======================

1.1 About VisualPOS Jr and VisualPOS
------------------------------------
VisualPOS Jr and VisualPOS are two software packages of the
WIZ-TEC VisualPOS Jr product series developed by WIZ-TEC Computing
Technologies Inc. that provide integrated and complete Point Of
Sale (POS) and Inventory Control capabilities.  They are PC
based Electronic Cash Register (ECR) systems that provide
complete POS solution -- both as a cash register system and as a
retail management system. It is the most sophisticated,
comprehensive, and practical POS system available in the market.

VisualPOS Jr and VisualPOS are universal and well designed for all
types of retail operations of any size -- from one PC open
department register for coffee shop or ticket pass to 26 lanes
(networked PCs, Local Area Network, LAN) major department or
grocery store.  WIZ-TEC also have a special Server Edition of
VisualPOS to support up to 99 registers on a single network
environment. VisualPOS Jr and VisualPOS are also built with an
integrated and real-time universal Pump Control system providing
solution for gas station C-Store retailers.

The VisualPOS Jr/VisualPOS system consists of two major modules:
the Point Of Sale module (POS.EXE) as the POS cash register, and
the Maintenance module (MNT.EXE) as the Management/Control/Support
back end.  They are extremely easy to use with full on-line help system.
In the POS cash register module, current transaction (in distinctive
and convenient by characters), current status, product and customer
information are available on the screen. VisualPOS Jr supports laser
scanner, credit card processing, and programmable invoicing.  Federal
and Provincial taxes are charged automatically according to settings
in the inventory database, and may be overridden when appropriate.
All journal information is stored in computer files, eliminating the
paper journal tape.  Journal information appears on the screen and can
be printed when required.  The MNT module utilizes a full pull-down
menu interface with operator message and context-sensitive help to
simplify its management operation. It is operated by making choices
from the pull-down menus and filling forms.  Full security is built
in with the software environment.  To explode the powerful features
of VisualPOS Jr and VisualPOS, please refer to the section of
VisualPOS Jr brief feature list.

1.2 System Requirements
-----------------------

Basic system requirements:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
IBM PC or better
DOS 3.1 or higher
4-6MB of free hard disk space for VisualPOS Jr
7-9MB of free hard disk space for VisualPOS
512K of free RAM

Recommended system configuration:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
40-80MB free hard disk space
EGA or VGA (Mono or Color) video display
286 or better
2-4MB of RAM (VisualPOS)
Optional devices:
Network (Any that supports DOS SHARE.EXE)
Laser Scanner (Metrologic MS700 or compatible)
Electronic Scale (Toledo 8213-0027 or compatible)
Customer display unit (SDMS serial, see latest update)
Credit card reader (Keyboard wedge, SDMS MAG1000K or compatible)
40 column receipt printer
80 or 132 column report printer

1.3 Operating Requirements
--------------------------

VisualPOS Jr/VisualPOS was developed for users with very little
knowledge of computers to operate the system for retail
operations.

Cashier POS operation:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
- Basic understanding of how to operate a electronic key pad
- Basic knowledge of retail store cashier operations
- Knowledge of ECR/DOS/computer operations is an asset
- Management and system support:
- Basic knowledge of DOS, software and computer operation
- Essential knowledge of POS and retail store operation
- Knowledge of Inventory Control and Accounting is an asset

Advanced users/dealers:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
For special service and hardware/pump control installation, or
utilization of the advanced/programmable features of VisualPOS Jr/
VisualPOS, certain level or degree of knowledge in areas of
electronics, PC hardware, Network, DOS, basic programming,
database, and other related fields is desirable.

1.4 Differences between VisualPOS Jr and VisualPOS
--------------------------------------------------
VisualPOS Jr is a limited special edition of VisualPOS.  The two
editions are fully compatible.  VisualPOS includes all features
that VisualPOS Jr contains, and is built with additional advanced
and powerful features.  In the POS module, VisualPOS supports
features like adding inventory/ customer, programmable invoicing,
customer display, end of day float control cash management, etc.
In the MNT module, it provides custom reporting, UPC and mailing
label printing, and much more.  Many other features such as
programmable reporting, general importing/exporting to other
applications are also provides with VisualPOS.  VisualPOS also
takes the advantage of extended or expanded memory and requires
less memory to run with or without the extra RAM memory installed.

1.5 VisualPOS Jr/VisualPOS gas pump control
-------------------------------------------

In addition to providing the best solution for regular retail
operations, VisualPOS Jr/VisualPOS is also built with an
integrated universal pump control to support C-Store operation
which is a very common small POS retail business.  Because
VisualPOS is a very comprehensive POS system, probably no
individual retailer is going to utilize all available features.
If you do not need the gas pump control system, its related
sections may be skipped without any effect on the rest of the
package.

VisualPOS is the new and revolutionary PC based system that
provides the one stop integrated solution for both POS and pump
control. All major brands and types of pumps are supported,
including both the single despensor and the multi despensor
blend pumps. It supports fuel management at four levels -- pump,
grade, tank and POS inventory. It performs all functions that
the ordinary pump controller provides, and much more -- changing
price with one keystroke, reading pump totals, transaction
stacking, drive away alert, automatic authorization, prepay or
limit type authorization...  PIE (Progressive International
Electronics) or EXACT pump control card/boxes are required as
the hardware for pump control.

The gas pump control and management system is a add-on product
to VisualPOS, and provided seperately as required.

1.6 VisualPOS Jr and VisualPOS brief feature list
-------------------------------------------------

VisualPOS POS and Retail Management
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
- Network ready, support up to 26 registers on a single network
- Extremely fast and easy to operate with full ECR emulation,
  complete on-line help, and easy to understand pull down menus
  and forms
- Tow line large character clerk/customer display
- Programmable POS keyboard, keys and macros for over 100
  immediate  POS functions
- 40 column receipt print on transaction, or demand
- Security logon protection
- Laser scanner and electronic scale ready
- Electronic receipt journal for auditing or re-print
- Full customer database and transactions support
- End Of Day (EOD, or Shift) Z Report
- Multiple tenders with cash, credit card, vendor coupon, foreign
  currency, customer account...
- Price override, multi price levels, quantity and split prices,
  store coupons, dollar or percentage discount on single or group
  items, packaging, voiding, returning, open departments...
- Full management and control over inventory, customer, vendor,
  operator databases
- Optional transaction ASCII exporting in record or script format
  for accounting or other database processing
- Merged Z and Tax report for period summaries and tax submission
- Print inventory item or UPC bar code labels for laser scanning,
  or mailing address labels
- Definable Auto-Batch processing to integrate with any third
  party software, DOS and DOS batches
- on-line cashier/clerk training mode
- and much more...

Additional brief features for VisualPOS
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
- Custom database reporting, Day/Month/Year end reporting/zeroing,
- Power (programmable) database reporting and exporting
- UPC bar code and mailing label printing
- Add inventory or customer in POS
- Programmable POS invoicing
- EOD float control cash drawer management/re-consolidation

1.7 Other WIZ-TEC Software Products
-----------------------------------
The gas pump control will be provided to VisualPOS as a add-on
product called VisualPOS Fuel. There are many other software products
available from WIZ-TEC.  VisualPOS+ Ltd., VisualPOS+, VisualPOS+ Fuel
are the enhanced versions of VisualPOS Point Of Sale and retail
management products. WizLINK+ is WIZ-TEC's small/fast remote control
and communication software.

For more information about WIZ-TEC's full line of products, please
contact WIZ-TEC directly at the address and phone provided.

1.8 How to read this manual
---------------------------
This manual contains all of the information needed to install
and operate the VisualPOS system.  The majority of this
information is also available in the on line Help system which
may be accessed by pressing the [F1] function key. Unless
specially notified, all descriptions apply to both VisualPOS Jr and
VisualPOS.

In Chapter 2 you will learn how to install VisualPOS, log on to
the system, use the menus and menu options to perform
operations, and learn the use of function keys.  The layout of
the screens, called "forms" in VisualPOS are described, and a
valuable feature called "Choice List" is explained.  Chapter 2
also includes a quick tour of the system.

Chapter 3 describes the procedures for configuring the VisualPOS
system in the general perspective. You will complete a User
Registration Information form, and setup the system
configuration, departments and sub-departments. This chapter
also describes the procedures for setting up quantity and split
price structures, tax tables, currency exchange rates, credit
cards, etc.

Chapter 4 describes the procedures for setting up the VisualPOS
system in the POS perspective.  You will tell VisualPOS the
kinds of printers you have installed for receipt, report, and
invoice printing, customize the keyboard functions, set up small
programs called macros, and customize your messages for receipt
printing, and etc.

Chapter 5 explains how to add, edit, and delete database records
of your inventory, open department, customers, vendors, and
operators. Topics on all important fields are explained to help
you understand how your databases management and inventory
control (database portion) are structured and constructed.

Chapter 6 presents the POS (Point Of Sale, or Cash Register)
module, the part of the system that clerks will use in your
retail transaction operation when dealing with customers.  The
POS module includes X reports and Z reports and a Training mode
that operators can use to practice the operation as if they were
in the Register mode.

Chapter 7 introduces to you how to use the EXACT pump controller
to implement the universal pump control system.  You will also
learn the basic concepts of the VisualPOS-EXACT pump control,
and how to operate in the POS module.

Chapter 8 introduces to you how to use the PIE pump controller
to implement the universal pump control system.  PIE pump
controller is the WIZ-TEC's suggested hardware controller that
is optional for supporting the VisualPOS integrated C-Store
solution. In this Chapter you will read how VisualPOS-PIE pump
control works in details, and learn topics on both the pump
control system and the management system.

Chapter 9 describes the setup options and report methods on both
the EXACT and PIE pump control system. This Chapter is an
addition in depth to Chapter 7 and 8 on VisualPOS universal pump
control.

Chapter 10 describes the operation on the extended POS functions
for VisualPOS -- the float control cash drawer management, POS
invoicing, adding and editing inventory and customer database in
POS, etc.

Chapter 11 discusses the general topics on maintenance and
utility for your retail operation.

Chapter 12 explains the VisualPOS customer database reporting
functions for the inventory, customer, vendor, and operator
databases, and for sales and tax information collected during
the operation of the POS module.

Chapter 13 describes the procedures for VisualPOS to produce
labels to be applied to items of inventory and to be used as
mailing labels, using the customer, vendor, and operator
databases.

Chapter 14 describes some advanced topics and utilities
provided, including rebuilding indexes, repairing database,
programming the invoice script, power reporting and exporting,
etc. If you are not very familiar with computers and
programming, you may need some assistance in performing these
tasks.

Chapter 15 discusses some important topics and sample operations
using VisualPOS for your retail automation. It is one of the
most important Chapters to help you making decisions, getting
support and service, and setting up customized operating
procedures for your clerks.

Appendix A lists the POS functions, brief descriptions and their
code names.

Appendix B lists the settings required to use the optional
devices like laser scanner, scale and magnetic stripe card
reader etc. with VisualPOS.

Appendix C is a Glossary, included to assist readers with terms
that may not be familiar, or which are used in specific ways for
VisualPOS.

Manual Conventions

A few conventions have been used in this manual to improve
clarity of directions.

Documentation referred to as VisualPOS or VisualPOS Jr/VisualPOS
applies to both VisualPOS Jr and VisualPOS.  When specified with
VisualPOS alone, the section applies to VisualPOS package only.

The names of keys on the keyboard are printed in capital letters
within brackets, such as [ENTER].

POS functions are assigned to keys on the keyboard, and each
function has a code name.  References to these functions on keys
are printed in capital letters within brackets.  For example,
the Cash Tendered function has the code name CASH.  When the
operator is directed to press the key to which this function has
been assigned, it is printed as [CASH].

Some actions of VisualPOS require more than one key to be pressed
at a time. At these times the first key is pressed and held and
then the second key is pressed. When two keys are to be pressed
at the same time it will be written as,  for  example, [CONTROL]
(or [CTRL]), [ALTERNATE] (or [ALT]), [HOME] or [SHIFT] [TAB].


                      CHAPTER 2  GETTING STARTED
                      ==========================

2.1 Introduction
----------------

In this Chapter you will learn how to log on to the system and
install VisualPOS.  Once the system is installed properly on
your computer, you may follow a Quick Tour of some of the
functions of VisualPOS to have a very first glance and feel
about the system.  The sections following the tour explain how
to use the menus and menu options to perform operations, and the
use of the function keys.  The general layout of the screens
called "forms" in VisualPOS, is described, and then the function
and use of Choice Lists is explained.

2.2 Installing VisualPOS Jr/VisualPOS
-------------------------------------

It is important you must read, well understand and agree to bind
to the Software License Agreement before installing and/or using
the software.

To install VisualPOS Jr. or VisualPOS:
Place the disk labelled "Disk 1" into floppy disk drive A: or B:.

Switch to the A: or B: drive by typing A: or B: and pressing
[ENTER].

Type "Install C:\VP" and press [ENTER] to install VisualPOS into
your hard disk under C: drive "\VP" directory.

You must have at least 4-6MB of free hard disk to install
VisualPOS, or 7-9MB for VisualPOS. The install program command
line syntax is "Install [DrivePath]" where [DrivePath] is the
drive and directory you want to install VisualPOS into. You must
install VisualPOS in a sub directory other than the root
directory.

VisualPOS is always set as single user mode when first install.
You may configure it into network if you are installing under a
multi register network system. It is required that you purchase
multi copies of VisualPOS to run under multi-register network.
For network installation and setup, please refer to the network
setup section for details.

After installing VisualPOS into your hard drive, the  very first
thing you should do is to read the README.DOC text file on disk.
This file includes the latest updates, changes and minor bug
fixes if any after the manual has printed.

There is a brief version of this User's Manual on disk under the
file name "MANUAL.DOC". It is a text file that may be printed
directly. You may also use this file in a word processor to
create custom operations manuals for the store employee --
clerks, cashiers, managers.

2.3 DOS System Files
--------------------

To ensure proper operation of VisualPOS, two DOS configuration
setup files must be examined to ensure that they are proper to
VisualPOS. The two files are called AUTOEXEC.BAT and CONFIG.SYS.
These files are to configure your computer when startup. The are
in the root directory of your C: hard drive.

The AUTOEXEC.BAT file is executed automatically each time you
turn on the power to your computer.  The file may contain
several lines of commands, but only three lines are important to
VisualPOS:
  VERIFY ON
  PROMPT=$P$G
  PRE84KEY

The first command tells your computer to verify that files are
written correctly to disks.  The second line sets the format for
the DOS prompt that appears on the screen; the current path is
displayed.  You don't have to set this format, but if you find
it necessary to obtain help within VisualPOS, it may be easier
for you to use this format. The last line is required only if
you are using the PREH84 POS keyboard with VisualPOS.

The CONFIG.SYS file often has only two commands that tell your
computer the number of files that can be open at one time, and
the number of buffers. For VisualPOS, the number of files and
buffers must each be set to a minimum of 20, and these two lines
must be included in CONFIG.SYS:
  FILES=20
  BUFFERS=20

If the number of files and buffers are already set to larger
values, your  CONFIG.SYS file does not need to be modified.

If any change has been made in your AUTOEXEC.BAT and CONFIG.SYS,
you should re-start your computer in order for the changes to be
implemented.  Press [CTRL]-[ALT]-[DEL] key all at the same time,
turn the power off and on, or press a restart button to re-start
the computer.  VisualPOS is now ready to be used.

2.4 VisualPOS programs and files
--------------------------------

In your installed VisualPOS directory, several types of programs
and files are present as described below:

2.4.1 EXE, COM and VVD programs
-------------------------------

- VP.EXE is the startup and supervise program to run VisualPOS
- POS.EXE is the main POS module to perform POS cash register tasks
- POS.VVD is the POS module screen definition and screen files
- MNT.EXE is the maintenance (MNT) module to perform inventory
  control, setup, management, reporting, and other back end
  functions
- MNT.VVD is the MNT module screen definition and screen files
- HC$$.COM is VisualPOS internal support program
- VPRESET.EXE is a utility program to reset VisualPOS to single
  user
- REBUILD.EXE is a utility program to rebuild database indexes
- VPREPAIR.EXE is a utility program to repair database records
- VPCHECK.EXE is a utility program to scan/fix database float
  number

If VisualPOS is installed, several extra EXE programs are also
included:
- POSX.EXE is the VisualPOS version of POS.EXE without VisualPOS
  features. It runs faster without extended or expanded memory
- MNTX.EXE is the VisualPOS version of MNT.EXE without VisualPOS
  features. It runs faster without extended or expanded memory
- VPIMPORT.EXE is the utility program for VisualPOS database
  importing
- VPREPORT.EXE is the report engine for database power
  reporting/exporting
- and other EXE programs that are additional utility programs for
  power reporting and database importing etc.

If you have VisualPOS installed but do not use its additional
features in the POS module, you may rename the program POS.EXE
to a different file name and rename the POSX.EXE to POS.EXE
instead. If you have VisualPOS installed but do not use its
additional features in the MNT module, you may rename the
program MNT.EXE to a different file name and rename the MNTX.EXE
to MNT.EXE instead.

2.4.2 Database and database support files
-----------------------------------------

- SYSTEM.LOK is the database system support file
- HC$.P is the database parameter file for VisualPOS database
- HC$HC$.P is the parameter script file for VisualPOS database
- POS.P is the database parameter file for VisualPOS database
- HC$POS.P is the parameter script file for VisualPOS database
- INVENTRY.DAT is the main inventory database file
- ITEM.IDX is the item number index file for inventory database
- UPC.IDX is the UPC number index file for inventory database
- MFR.IDX is the part number index file for inventory database
- CUSTOMER.DAT is the main customer database file
- CUSTID.IDX is the customer number index file for customer
  database
- CUSTNM.IDX is the customer name index file for customer database
- VENDOR.DAT is the main vendor database file
- VENID.IDX is the vendor number index file for vendor database
- VENNM.IDX is the vendor name index file for vendor database
- OPERATOR.DAT is the main operator database file
- OPID.IDX is the operator number index file for operator database
- OPNM.IDX is the operator name index file for operator database
- OPLOG.IDX is the operator logon number index file for operator
  database
- INVENTRY.MAS is the blank inventory database file
- ITEM.MAX is the item number blank index file
- UPC.MAX is the UPC number blank index file
- MFR.MAX is the part number blank index file
- CUSTOMER.MAS is the blank customer database file
- CUSTID.MAX is the customer number blank index file
- CUSTNM.MAX is the customer name blank index file
- VENDOR.MAS is the blank vendor database file
- VENID.MAX is the vendor number blank index file
- VENNM.MAX is the vendor name blank index file
- OPERATOR.MAS is the blank operator database file
- OPID.MAX is the operator number blank index file
- OPNM.MAX is the operator name blank index file
- OPLOG.MAX is the operator logon number blank index file

2.4.3 System and setup files
----------------------------

- REGISTER.REC is the VisualPOS registration file
- SYSCONFG.REC is the VisualPOS system configuration file
- CURRENCY.REC is the currency and credit card definition file
- GRPDEPT.REC is the department and sub-department definition file
- PRINTSET.REC is the printer definition file
- PRNTCODE.REC is the compiled printer driver file
- QTYSPLIT.REC is the split pricing definition file
- QUANTITY.REC is the quantity pricing definition file
- TAX.REC is the tax table and setup file
- CARDEOD.REC is the automatic credit card processing end of day
  file
- MESSAGES.REC is the receipt message definition file
- PUMPINIT.REC is the PIE pump control definition file
- GASWASH.REC is the EXACT pump control definition and reporting
  file
- AUTOBATH.REC is the Auto Batch definition file
- AUTOPOS.REC is the compiled Auto Batch definition file
- PUMPSALE.REC is the PIE pump control transaction file
- PUMPREPT.REC is the PIE pump control sales summary report file
- PUMPREAD.REC is the PIE pump control reading total report file
- RECEIPT.LIB is the receipt printer driver library
- REPORT.LIB is the report printer driver library
- TAX.LIB is the tax table library
- SETUP.HC$ is the compiled file of system setup and definitions
- MACROS.HC$ is the compiled file of key and macro definitions

2.4.4 Other system files
------------------------

- README.DOC is the information document for the latest updates
- MANUAL.DOC is the brief version text file of this User's Manual
- POSLIST.TXT is the POS module on line pick list file
- POSHELP.TXT is the POS module on line help file
- MNTHELP.TXT is the MNT module on line pick list file
- MNTLIST.TXT is the MNT module on line help file

2.4.5 Additional VisualPOS system files
---------------------------------------

- BARLABEL.REC is the VisualPOS label printing definition file
- INVENTRY.REP is the VisualPOS inventory report definition file
- CUSTOMER.REP is the VisualPOS customer report definition file
- VENDOR.REP is the VisualPOS vendor report definition file
- OPERATOR.REP is the VisualPOS operator report definition file
- INVOICE.* (* is the file extension of ANY) are the script and
  example files for VisualPOS programmable invoicing

2.4.6 Run time generated data files
-----------------------------------

- JOURNAL.HC$ is the current receipt journal file
- *.J?? (* is the file name with date-shift stamp, ?? is the
  VisualPOS register number) is the history receipt journal
  file
- XZINFO.HC$ is the current X and Z Report file
- TRXZINFO.HC$ is the training mode X and Z Report file
- SALES.R?? (?? is the VisualPOS register number) is the record
  based line item transaction ASCII file
- SALES.X?? (?? is the VisualPOS register number) is the script
  and record based transaction, summary and tender ASCII file
- *.Z?? (* is the file name with date-shift stamp, ?? is the
  VisualPOS register number) is the history Z Report file
- RTREE.OUT is the customer database reporting output text file
- RTSCRIPT.SCP is the customer database reporting script file

2.5 Before you start
--------------------

You must register your copy of VisualPOS and obtain an
authorization code from authorized WIZ-TEC stuff by phone or
fax. VisualPOS Jr. and VisualPOS software is NOT for sale.  Your
purchase is for a non-transferable license to use the software
as described in the Software License Agreement.

There are two major modules in VisualPOS -- POS.EXE for
VisualPOS Point Of Sale, and MNT.EXE for back end management and
maintenance.  VP.EXE is VisualPOS's startup and supervise
program.  In the POS module, VisualPOS emulates a cash register
with minimal key strokes required for POS functions, which is
fast and easy for cashier and clerk to learn and operate.  All
keys are remapped to POS function keys or key macros.  MNT
module uses pull-down menu as the interface of many user
friendly software with forms, regions and fields.  Function keys
are also used in the MNT module using the convention listed
below:

- [F1] help
- [F2] pick/choice list
- [F3] find database record
- [F4] previous database record
- [F5] next database record
- [F6] blank field
- [F7] previous field or region
- [F8] next field or region
- [F9] delete
- [F10] do it and exit form
- [ESC] cancel and abort

The logon number by default is "1111". You should record your
and your clerks' logon numbers separately outside VisualPOS.
Some example setups and database records are shipped with the
system. You should eliminate them or modify them into your needs
before going on line in your retail operation.

2.6 Start Up and Log On
-----------------------

VisualPOS must be started up from the DOS directory that
contains the program.  Switch to this directory by typing "CD "
and enter the name of the directory that VisualPOS installed to,
and press [ENTER].   For example type "CD \VP" and press
[ENTER]). If you wish to set up a DOS batch file which will
allow you to start VisualPOS from any directory; consult your
DOS manual for assistance.  After that, you may start VisualPOS
by typing "VP" and pressing [ENTER].

When VisualPOS is first started, the POS module is loaded and
the cash register screen appears.  You are prompted to enter a
four digit Log On    number.  An operator record with Logon #
"1111" is included in the database when VisualPOS is shipped.
Type "1111" to log on.  Note that the Log On status indicator
stops flashing, indicating that you have an active Log On in
Register mode.  VisualPOS is "live" at this point and you can
experiment with the cash register.

A message appears when an invalid Logon # is entered; enter the
correct Logon #.  As a security feature, VisualPOS shuts down
and returns to DOS if three illegal Logon #'s are entered.

Log off the Register mode by pressing [TAB] which is assigned
the [LOG] function, the Log On indicator will flash and the Log
On panel reappears.  you may Log on again now.  To exit
VisualPOS and return to DOS, press [K] which is assigned [KEY
LOCK] function.  Pressing this key has the same effect as
turning a key on a cash register to permit a different mode of
operation.  The Key Lock function causes a Selection menu to
appear. Press [ 9 ] or highlight Exit VisualPOS and press
[ENTER] to exit the system and return to DOS, or press [ 1 ] or
highlight POS Register Mode and press [ENTER] to return to
Register mode.

Before proceeding with a description of some basic features of
VisualPOS, we will take you on a quick tour of some parts of the
system.

2.7 Quick Tour
--------------

When VisualPOS is started, the POS module is loaded and the cash
register screen appears.  Log on by typing "1111" when the Log
On panel appears.  You are now logged on to Register mode of the
POS module, and can proceed with some transactions.  You can
leave the tour at any time by selecting Exit VisualPOS from the
Selection menu or the Module menu, depending on your location in
the tour.

The inventory items included in the sample data file have Item
#'s beginning with 1000 and increasing by 10.  The vendor
records begin with Vendor # 100, and increase by 10.  The
customer records begin with Customer # 10 and increase by 10.
The first operator record has Operator # 1 and the numbers
increase by 1.

Sell an item by typing the Item # and pressing [ENTER] which has
been assigned the [AUTO PRICE] function. Now press [-] which has
been assigned the [CASH TENDERED] function.  This completes a
very simple transaction as shown on the journal.

Begin a new transaction by identifying a customer.  For example
type 10 and press [F9] which has been assigned the [CUSTOMER
NUMBER] function. The name of the customer appears on the
display, and information about the customer is completed in the
customer panel of the screen.  Press [F9] again and a part of
the customer record appears on the journal area.  This customer
information is cleared from the screen when you press another
key to continue the transaction.

If you make a typing error press [BACKSPACE] to remove the last
key press. Press [SPACE] (assigned the [CLEAR] function) to exit
from an entire sequence of key entries.

Sell one of the items by typing the Item # and pressing [ENTER]
(the [AUTO PRICE] function).  The Trans status indicator lights
up to show that a transaction is in progress.  The Tax status
indicators display the taxes applicable to the item.
Information about the item appears below the status indicators.
VisualPOS looks up the price of the item in the inventory
database, and the description of the item and price appear on
the display.  This first sale appears on the journal in the
lower left section of the screen.  Press [I] which has been
assigned the [ITEM LOOKUP] function.  Fields from the inventory
database appear for the item just sold. This information about
the item is cleared from the screen when you press another key
to continue the transaction.

Sell a few more items and then press [+] (assigned as
[SUB-TOTAL] function) to display the subtotal of the sale.
Tender cash in payment by typing the amount tendered and then
pressing [-]. The journal shows the subtotal of the transaction,
calculates and displays the applicable taxes and total amount
due, and finally shows the amount of cash tendered and the
change, if any, due to the customer.

The Help system in the Register mode of the POS module is
activated by pressing [F1] and is de-activated by pressing [F1]
again.  When the Help system is active, press any key on the
keyboard to display the help text explaining the function that
has been assigned to each key.  Use the help text to explore
some of the functions of POS and then try them out if you wish.

When you have completed some transactions and are ready to move
on, open the Selection menu by pressing [K] for the [KEY LOCK]
function.  Choose Z Report from the menu.  Select Yes when asked
if you want to clear totals. The Z Report appears on the
journal, and all of the summary totals are cleared to zero.  The
Z Report can not be viewed on the journal until a transaction
has been completed.  Press [F12] or [/] to enter a No Sale
transaction.  Press [PAGE UP] and select Yes when asked if you
want to view the previous journal.  Use the scroll functions on
the keyboard ([PAGE UP], [PAGE DOWN], [LINE UP], [LINE DOWN]) to
view the Z report. [LINE UP] and [LINE DOWN] are assigned to
cursor up an cursor down, respectively.  Press [CLEAR] to end
scrolling; [CLEAR] has been assigned to [SPACE].

Choose Maintenance (MNT) module from the selection menu to
continue the tour. When the MNT module has loaded, the menu
titles of this module appear across the top of the screen.  Use
the cursor keys to highlight the Database menu title, and the
commands available on that menu appear.

Highlight Inventory Edit menu selection form the Database menu
and press [ENTER] or press [I] to edit inventory records.  The
Inventory form appears showing all of the data fields for an
inventory record.  With the cursor in the Item # field type the
number of an item and press [F3].  The fields for this Item #
will be completed in the form.  Note at the bottom of the form
that the sales of the item that you made using the POS module
have been updated. Press [F5] to view the next inventory record
or press [F4] to view the previous inventory record.  Press [F7]
and [F8] to move backward or forward between fields. Press
[ESCAPE] to close the Inventory form. The Operator Message Line
at the bottom of the screen requests that you confirm that you
wish to exit the form.

Highlight the Customer Edit menu selection; the Customer form
opens. Locate one of the customer records (type the Customer #
and press [F3]). Press and hold [CONTROL] and then press [END]
to move the cursor to the last field at the bottom of the form.
Scroll through the region using the cursor keys.  This region of
the form shows the sales in various departments that you
recorded using the POS module.  Press [CONTROL] and [HOME], at
the same time, to move to the first field of any form.  Press
[ESCAPE] to close the form.

Highlight the System menu and choose Exit and press [ENTER] to
exit VisualPOS and return to DOS. The Quick Tour for VisualPOS's
glance and feel is now finished.

The following sections describe in greater detail some of the
functions and features of VisualPOS that you used during the
tour.  The descriptions will be more useful if you have logged
on to VisualPOS while you read the manual so that you can
experiment with the instructions using the sample data and see
the screens as they are described.

2.8 Using Menus
---------------

Use the cursor keys to highlight the menu titles in a module.
Note that   as the different menu titles of a module are
highlighted, the menu with the options available appears below
the title. This is what is meant by a pull-down menu.  The menu
titles "wrap around", that is, pressing the right cursor key
when the right-most menu is active will activate the left-most
menu.  Another way to move between menus is to press [ESCAPE],
type the highlighted letter of the menu title that you want to
use (usually the first letter), and press [ENTER].

There are two ways to choose an option on a menu.  The simplest
is to type the highlighted letter of an option.  For example, to
add an item to the inventory database, highlight the Inventory
menu in the Data module and press [A] for Add.  The data form
for adding inventory items appears. Close the form by pressing
[ESCAPE] and pressing [Y] for Yes when asked if you want to
close the form. You will return to the Inventory menu. The other
way of choosing a menu option is to highlight that option using
the cursor keys to move up and down the menu, and then press
[ENTER]. Note that as each menu option is highlighted, an
operator message appears at the bottom of the screen explaining
the operation that will be started if that menu option is
selected.

2.9 Mode Indicator
------------------

In the upper right corner of the screen, there is a highlighted
box called the Mode Indicator. When the menu titles are visible,
the Mode Indicator displays the name of the active module. Each
time a menu option is chosen and a form (defined below) has
appeared on the screen, a code for the menu option chosen
appears in this box. The menu titles remain visible when forms
are open, and the active menu title is highlighted. The
combination of the menu titles and the Mode Indicator allow the
user to determine their location in the system quickly. For
example, if Add is chosen on the Inventory menu in the Data
module, the Inventory menu title remains highlighted and ADD
appears in the Mode Indicator when the Inventory form opens.

2.10 Function Keys
------------------

Specific functions have been assigned to the function keys (F1
to F10) across the top of the keyboard.  Those functions are as
follows:

F1 is used to access the Help system of VisualPOS.  [F1] can be
pressed at any time to obtain more information about the
function of specific keys on the keyboard (Register mode of POS
module) or information about the operation currently in progress
(all other modules). The help system in all modules except POS
is two-tiered.  The first time [F1] is pressed, the help text
describes the current location in the system.  If it is pressed
again, the help text describes the next more general level of
the system. Press [ENTER] or [ESCAPE] once for each time [F1]
was pressed to exit the help system and return to active
operation.

F2 is used to open Choice Lists which are available at many
points in the system.  When the cursor is located on a data
field which has a Choice List available, this is indicated by
the operator message at the bottom of the screen. Press [F2] to
open the list. Pressing [ESCAPE] closes a Choice List.  These
lists are described in greater detail below.

F3 is called the Select function. [F3] is pressed in View and
Edit modes to locate, or select, a record after text has been
entered in one of the data fields that can be used to search the
database.  For example, to locate the record for Inventory Item
# 1000, type 1000 in the Item # field and press [F3].

F4 and F5 are used to move backward and forward, respectively,
through a series of records.  For example, assume you are
editing records describing inventory items.  A press of [F4]
will cause the information for the previous inventory record to
be shown, while pressing [F5] will show the information for the
next record.  If the first inventory record is currently shown
and [F4] is pressed to show the previous record, a message will
indicate that there is no "previous" record.  Press [F4] again
to move to the last record.  The same is true if [F5] is pressed
when the last record is currently shown. Move the cursor from
any field on a form to the first field by pressing and holding
[CONTROL] while you press [HOME].  Similarly move the cursor to
the last field by pressing [CONTROL] [END].

F6 clears the contents from a data field so that new information
can be entered.  Data that has been cleared from a field by
pressing [F6] can be returned to the field by pressing [ESCAPE]
as long as no other actions have been performed. Move to first
character within a data field by pressing [HOME], or move to the
last character of a field by pressing [END].

F7 and F8 move the cursor backward and forward, respectively,
between fields and between scrollable regions or sections of
data forms. Scrollable regions are areas of forms in which there
are more lines of information than can be viewed at one time.
Scrollable regions will be encountered throughout VisualPOS.
The nature of these regions will become clear when they are
explained in greater detail in the sections where they appear.

F9 is the Delete key.  [F9] is pressed to delete a record while
in Delete mode. To delete a record, enter text in one of the
highlighted fields on a form and press [F3] to select that
record.    Press [F9] to delete the record.  [F9] is also used
to edit macros.

F10 is the Save key. [F10] is used, for example, in Add and Edit
modes to signal that data entry or editing has been completed,
and that the information should be saved as it appears on the
form. [F10] is also used to save reports, macros, department
definitions etc., and to print reports.

You can assign additional functions to other keys on the
keyboard for use in the POS module.  Please refer to POS Key and
Macro setup section for more details.

2.11 Forms
----------

The information about all of the individual units such as
inventory items, operators, vendors, and customers that are
involved with your retail operation constitutes a database.  The
information about each individual unit is called a record.  Each
record consists of many different data  fields each with a name
(e.g., Item #), a format (e.g., numeric or text),  and a maximum
number of characters.  For example, the inventory database
consists of records which contain data fields describing each
item of  inventory.

If you were using a manual system to monitor inventory, an
inventory record would consist of a paper form showing all of
the data field names with space beside each field name for the
information that is to be completed. These data forms are built
in to VisualPOS, and appear as screens when menu options are
selected.  For example there is a form for inventory items,
another form for information about operators, and so on.  Each
form is divided into sections, that is, sets of data fields
which contain related information.  The sections of forms are
outlined by solid lines.

To illustrate the concepts of forms and sections, choose Add on
the Customer menu in the Data module.  The Customer form appears
with the cursor located in the first data field, Customer #.
The top section of the form is devoted to personal information
describing the customer.  The centre section of the form records
classification information, such as the type of customer, the
price and tax levels he/she is to be charged, and credit
information.

The bottom section of the Customer form is a Scrollable Region.
In this region are recorded the month-to-date and year-to-date
costs and retail values of purchases made by the customer,
broken down by departments.  Only three lines of this Purchase
Table can be viewed at one time, but there are actually 26
lines, one for each department. Use the cursor  keys, [PAGE UP]
and [PAGE DOWN] to scroll through the information in a
scrollable region.  Press [ESCAPE] to close the Customer form
without saving the information.

Several keys can be used to move between the fields of a form.
Press [ENTER] or [TAB] to move to the next field or [SHIFT]
[TAB] to move to the previous field. Pressing cursor right moves
the cursor to the next character within a field unless the
cursor is at the last field position and then cursor right moves
to the next field.  Cursor left operates the same way but moves
the cursor to the previous character or field. Cursor up and
down move the cursor up and down between fields on the form. The
field that the cursor moves to when these keys are pressed
depends on the  layout of the form.  If fields on successive
lines of the form are in  approximately the same positions,
pressing the cursor up or down keys moves the cursor between the
lines.  However, when the fields are not lined up,  pressing
these keys may cause the cursor to jump several lines.  You will
have to experiment until you get used to the operation of these
keys. Press [CONTROL] [HOME] to move to the first field on a
form and [CONTROL] [END] to move to the last field.

On a form which has scrollable regions, [F7] and [F8] are
usually pressed to move between the regions.  There are two
exceptions.  If the cursor is located on the last field before a
scrollable region, then [TAB] [ENTER] or cursor down moves the
cursor to the scrollable region. [CONTROL] [END] also moves the
cursor to this region.  Within a scrollable region, the cursor
can be moved using the keys described above.

2.12 Pick/Choice Lists
----------------------

At many different locations in VisualPOS, operators are required
to enter specific types of information into data fields. When
the range of information to be entered is limited, VisualPOS
provides Choice Lists of options. The operator message at the
bottom of the screen indicates when Choice Lists are available
for data fields.  For example, on the Customer, Vendor, and
Operator forms there is a field called Prov/State where the
abbreviation for the Province or State as part of an address is
to be  entered.  A Choice List of all Canadian provinces and
territories and  American states is available on this field.
The operator could select the entry from the Choice List.
Operators often have the option of manually entering the data in
a field instead of using a Choice List.

Choice Lists have three main purposes:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
- they reduce the amount of typing required;
- they enforce standardization on certain data fields where
  operators could use different coding schemes;
- they allow information entered by operators in various parts of
  VisualPOS to be reviewed and selected quickly without having to
  refer back to the form where the information was actually
  entered.

An example of the latter situation is provided by entry of
vendors on the Inventory form in the Data module.  A Choice List
of vendors is available for the Vendor data fields on the
Inventory form.  This list is created by the entry of vendor
records using the Vendor form in the Data module.

Choice Lists are opened by pressing [F2]. There are two ways to
move between the choices on these lists:

use the cursor keys, [PAGE UP], [PAGE DOWN], [HOME] or [END];

type the first letter of a choice in the list.  The first entry
on the list beginning with that letter will be highlighted. If
the same letter is typed again, the next choice beginning with
that letter is highlighted.



               CHAPTER 3  GENERAL SETUP AND CONFIGURATION
               ==========================================

3.1 Introduction
----------------

The setup of VisualPOS is controlled through the Maintenance
module which is accessed from the Module menu.  In this chapter
you will learn how to:
- initialize the files of VisualPOS,
- complete the user information form;
- set up the printer(s);
- enter messages that will appear on cash register receipts;
- identify the hardware configuration of your system;
- set up the tax tables;
- set up departments, currency exchange rates, credit cards,
  quantity discounts, and split price structures; and
- assign functions to the keys on the keyboard to be used in the
  POS module.

3.2 User Registration Information
---------------------------------

There is only one choice on the User Information menu.  When
User Information is chosen, a form appears where you must record
information about your retail operation.

Carefully read the Warning Message which appears at the bottom
of the form. If you change any of the information on this form,
you must obtain a new Authorization Code from WIZ-TEC Computing
Technologies Inc. within a grace period of seven days.  Each
time you run POS or MNT module of VisualPOS, the number of days
remaining in the grace period is displayed.  If the grace period
expires without entry of a new authorization code, VisualPOS
will only allow you access to the User Information form.  This
applies to first-time installations of VisualPOS as well as to
any future changes to this information.

The simplest way to obtain a new authorization code is to FAX a
copy of the User Information form to WIZ-TEC.  A representative
will telephone you with your new code.  To print the User
Information form after making changes and saving it, make sure
your printer is ready and then press [PRINT SCREEN].  A copy of
the User Information form as it appears on the screen will be
printed.  You can also telephone WIZ-TEC with the information to
obtain a new authorization code.  The telephone and FAX numbers
appear on the User Information form.

The Serial Number of your copy of VisualPOS always appears in
that field and can not be changed.  The Authorization Code is
obtained from WIZ-TEC Computing Technologies Inc.  Enter the
Authorization Code very carefully, because if a mistake is made
and saved, VisualPOS will not recognize the code and will stop
operating after the grace period has expired.  The Date is
updated automatically when a new Authorization Code is entered.

Complete the Store Name and Address fields as you would like
them to appear on receipts printed during operation of the POS
module and on reports.  Forty characters are available for the
Store Name, but if you choose to print the name in double wide
characters (see Messages below), only 20 characters can be
printed.  Be sure to complete the Telephone # and FAX # fields
so that WIZ-TEC Computing Technologies Inc. can contact you with
new Authorization Codes.  If the information for the store is
different from the information for the corporation that owns the
store, complete the fields in the next section.

Press [F10] to save the information, or press [ESCAPE] to close
the form without saving the information and return to the
Maintenance module menu titles.

3.3 System Configuration
------------------------

Choose System Configuration on the System menu to open a form
where important information about your system will be recorded.
VisualPOS relies on a correct system setup to operate properly.

The Store # field is for a multi-store retail operation. It is a
four digit number. For single store operation, put the field to
1. The Register # field is to set the current VisualPOS register
number. If you only have one VisualPOS installed, fill the
number with 1. VisualPOS supports up to 26 registers on a
network. The Store # and Register # must be filled with a value.
It is also used to format ASCII transaction number exporting.
The Store # and Register # fields will also be printed on the
receipts.

VisualPOS runs under network environment. You must purchase
multi copies of VisualPOS to run under multi-register network
system. The register type is to set type of register current
VisualPOS will run under. Use [F2] to bring up the choice list.
Single User VisualPOS will use its own database system. Network
Master is to set current VisualPOS as the server. VisualPOS
Network Slave is to set current VisualPOS as a client
workstation and use the Server/Master's databases to operate.
Network Sub-Master is the same as the Slave, and is introduced
for redundancy back purpose (i.e. the backup server). Instead of
using the server and client terms, VisualPOS uses the Master and
Slave instead to make it easier to understand. Master is the
Server, and Slave is the client.

Master/Sub-Master path is used only under network environment.
If it is running as Single User mode. Leave them all blank. If
the Register is the Master (server), leave the Master Path
blank; if is the Sub-Master (backup server) leave the SubMaster
Path blank instead. Each path included with the drive letter
field (A-Z) and the directory path (without driver and ':'!)
field. The Master and SubMaster paths must be entered correctly.
They are the paths of the Master/SubMaster that are visible to
this PC station. Please refer to the Network section for more
detailed information.

The following seven fields identify the ports through which
various equipment communicates with your computer.  For each
item of equipment, select the port from a Choice List; open each
list by pressing [F2].  If the equipment is not a part of your
system, select NONE from the list.  If you are using the
optional laser scanner, scale, or card reader with VisualPOS,
set up these equipments using the settings described in Appendix
B.  The ability to transmit data using a modem will be included
in a future release of VisualPOS. The Customer Display unit is
supported by VisualPOS using COM1. It is yet a special edition
and will be implemented in the future.

The credit card region is to configure VisualPOS automatic
credit card processing setup. VisualPOS supports both 3101 and
3201 protocols. It is currently in testing and will be included
in the future releases with full on line support credit card
processing after the testing and approval.

The Line Type is selected from a Choice List.  The line can be
either dial or leased.  A Dial line dials the telephone number
to connect to the authorization computer.  A Leased line is a
direct and permanent connection to the authorization computer
through the telephone network.

Select the Baud Rate from the Choice List.  The Baud Rate
depends on the type of service arranged.

Select the type of dial service, either Tone or Pulse, by
pressing [SPACE] to change between these options.

If you are using a dial-in access to the authorization computer
enter the area code and telephone number in the field beside
Dial.  The format should be 1-999-999-9999. The 1 and the area
code are optional.

Beside the telephone number, space is provided to enter special
setup codes which may be required for your modem.  This
information is not usually required; do not complete the field
without direction from WIZ-TEC Computing Technologies Inc.

Enter the Merchant ID assigned to you.

Enter the Terminal ID assigned to you.  Be careful to enter the
ID exactly as it is printed; the code is case sensitive.

In the next five fields, record Yes/No responses as appropriate.
Press [SPACE] to change between Yes and No.

Is a receipt to be printed automatically when a transaction is
completed, or must the Print Receipt key be pressed before a
receipt is printed?

Is a customer number required to begin a transaction?  If you
select Yes, a transaction can not proceed until a valid customer
number is entered.

Is a decimal required to enter cents (Yes), or is a decimal to
be inserted automatically by VisualPOS in the series of numbers
entered for a price or payment amount (No)?  If you select Yes,
10 dollars would be entered as 10, and 10 cents as .10.  If you
select No, 10 dollars would be entered as 1000, and 10 cents as
10.

Is the operator to be logged off VisualPOS at the end of each
transaction?  This option should be selected (Yes) when more
than one operator uses the terminal, so that the terminal is
always secured and sales are credited to the appropriate
operator.

Will the operator be forced to perform a backup of the system
before zeroing of monthly and annual totals. Put this field to
be 'NO'. If you set this option to 'YES', VisualPOS will block
you from any zeroing total process to remand you of database
backup.

In the next section of the form:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Record the number of decimals allowed during the entry of
Quantity for a multiple item purchase.   If fractional
quantities are not allowed, enter a zero.   When you are using
an electronic scale, the number of decimals must be set to a
minimum of three.

Choose a time to reset the transaction number in the POS module
to zero.   Midnight is a convenient time for most stores, but
other times may be more appropriate depending on store and shift
hours.  This field was originally designed for single store Open
Department registers.  Since VisualPOS is supporting multi-store
and accounting exporting now, the transaction reset is no longer
true.  VisualPOS increases its transaction number from 1 to
30000 circulative for receipts and invoices independently at
each register.  For multi-register operation, they may be
identified by the store and register number printed.  When
exporting the ASCII transaction files, VisualPOS will merge the
3 digit (less and equal to 250) store number, the 2 digit
register number and the individual 5 digit transaction number
into one 10 digit number. VisualPOS also adds an addition 6
digit date stamp/prefix (2 digit year, 2 digit month and 2 digit
day).

POS ASCII transaction type is the VisualPOS transaction ASCII
export type. It is for exporting to other database and
accounting applications. If you are not going to use these sale
files for other database or accounting packages, you may disable
the function. VisualPOS can generate two major types of ASCII
sale file -- Record Type for line transaction and Script Type
for tender/summary and line transaction. They are ASCII text
files and are always being written to the server's (Master's)
VisualPOS directory if under network.  The file SALES.R?? (??
stands for register number) is the line item transaction
detailed file (record/line based, typically used for auditing
and analysing transaction history,  and  exporting very detailed
accounting), and file SALES.X?? is the transaction summary based
media/tender detailed file (record/ line or script based,
typically used for accounting hook/porting). Other than for
accounting/database information exchanges, they are also very
compact transaction audit files better than the Receipt Journals.

At the bottom of the form select the type of printer to be used
for labels by pressing [F2] to open the Choice List for this
field.  You must have one of the printers in the list or a
compatible printer in order to print labels with VisualPOS.
When you make your selection, the decimal codes for that printer
are completed automatically.  Knowledgeable users may wish to
change the codes to allow printing with different fonts.

Note that for some printers a choice of print densities of 150
and 300 dots per inch (DPI) is available.  The higher density
print does not improve label readability for laser scanners, and
requires more time to print.

Press [F10] to save the System Configuration information or
press [ESCAPE] to return to the System Setup menu without saving
your entries. Taxes

3.4 Currency & Credit Cards
---------------------------

Choose Currency/Credit Card on the System menu.  A form appears
where the current currency dollar equivalent of up to nine
foreign currencies can be entered.  For each currency, record
the name and the Canadian dollar equivalent.  The date of the
last update is recorded automatically.

To tender foreign currencies in the POS module, the code number
of the currency is entered and then [CURR] (Currency Conversion)
is pressed.  VisualPOS automatically performs the currency
conversions using the rates you have entered.  Any change due to
the customer is displayed in Canadian funds.

Press [F8] to move the cursor to the bottom section of the form.
Record  the names of up to nine credit cards that you accept
for payment by  customers.  The code number of the credit cards
will be entered in POS to identify the card that a customer has
tendered. For example, if VISA is entered as Credit Card 01, an
operator will type a 1 before pressing  [TYPE] (the Bank Card
Type key) and then [CARD] (the Card Tendered  key) to tell the
system that a VISA card has been tendered.  You may wish to set
up a macro to simplify the key sequence required to tender a
credit card or perform a currency conversion.  Macros are
explained later in this chapter.

Press [F10] to save the currency conversion rates and codes and
the credit card codes, or press [ESCAPE] to return to the System
Setup menu without saving your entries.

3.5 Departments & Sub-departments
---------------------------------

The system you are presently using probably allows only 10 or
fewer departments. VisualPOS allows up to 26 departments that
can be further divided into a total of 99 sub-departments. The
large number of departments and sub-departments permits much
greater detail in sales reporting.

Departments are defined in a two-tiered structure of departments
and sub- departments. Departments are broad categories such as
clothing, shoes, automotive, and so on.  Sub-departments are
more specific divisions of departments, such as men's clothing,
women's clothing, and children's clothing.  You should set up
sub-departments to contain inventory items which all have the
same tax status.  For example, the Grocery department might have
two sub-departments, taxable and non-taxable.

The sub-departments also define Open Items.  Open Items are
groups of different inventory items that are not identified by
individual inventory records.  If you are using the Quick Start
setup of  VisualPOS, all sales of items are posted to these Open
Items.  With the complete setup of VisualPOS that includes
individual inventory records, Open Items may also be used when
items are presented for purchase at the  cash register without
any identifying information like a UPC # or Item #,  or when the
inventory record has not yet been entered.

Choose Departments on the System Setup menu to open the form
where departments and sub-departments are defined.  The
Department and Sub- department Definition sections are
scrollable regions. Begin by developing the department
definitions.  Twenty-six department definitions, coded A to Z,
are available.  Beside the desired code for each department,
enter a name describing the department.  The departments do not
have to be coded in sequence.  For example, you could use
departments A, D, M, etc. instead of A, B, and C.

Department Z is defined as Miscellaneous when VisualPOS is
shipped, but this name can be changed.  During the operation of
the cash register, if there is a question regarding which
department an item should be posted to, they will be posted to
Department Z.  If you need one more department for miscellaneous
items, you can define one, but give different names to these two
departments .

The High Amount field is provided as a safety net for typing
errors during transactions.  Enter the price of the most
expensive item in the department.  VisualPOS will check POS
register entries made by operators against this value and a
warning message will appear if the High Amount is exceeded.  In
this way entry errors such as $2000 instead of $200 can be
avoided.

When all of the departments have been defined, press [F8] to
move to the Sub-department Definition section of the form.
Choose a number from 1 to 98 for the first sub-department.
VisualPOS does not require that sub-department numbers be used
sequentially.  In fact it may be useful to reserve some numbers
throughout the sequence for future use.

Sub-department 99 is defined as MISCELLANEOUS when VisualPOS is
shipped.  During the operation of the cash register, if there is
a question regarding which sub-department an item should be
posted to, they will be posted to Sub-department 99.  If you
require additional sub-department for miscellaneous items, you
can define one, but give different names to these two
sub-departments.

All sub-departments are initially linked to Department Z, the
Miscellaneous department, but they can be linked to the
departments you have defined.  With the cursor on the Department
field, press [F2] to open the Choice List of departments. The
list includes all of the departments that you just defined.
Highlight the department in the list and press [ENTER]. This
links the department to the sub-department that you are
defining.  Enter a description of the sub-department in the
Description field.  This description should include some
reference to the department name.  For example, if the
department is Clothing and the sub-department is Men's Clothing,
enter Men's Clothing in the description  field, not simply
Men's.  Because only 16 characters are available for the
sub-department description, some abbreviations may be necessary.
The sub-department descriptions that you enter will be available
as a Choice List  in the Inventory section of the Data module.

The next three fields are used to enter ranges of inventory
numbers to be used for inventory items in each sub-department.
Enter a Start and End number.  The Increment field will be used
when inventory numbers are assigned automatically by VisualPOS.
If an increment of one is entered, successive inventory items
will be assigned sequential numbers (e.g., 1000, 1001, 1002 and
so on).  You may find it more useful to select an increment of 5
or 10, to allow insertion of inventory numbers between existing
items in the future as new items are stocked for sale.

Press [F10] to save the Department and Sub-department
Definitions, or press [ESCAPE] to return to the System Setup
menu without saving the information.

The names of departments and sub-departments can be changed
after they have been defined by opening the Department form,
making changes, and pressing [F10] to save the new names.
However, you should be aware that it may take considerable time
to update the databases following these changes. All of the
inventory, customer, and vendor records must be updated with the
new department and sub-department names. To minimize the amount
of time required, make all changes at one time rather than
making each change and pressing [F10] after each one.

3.6 Quantities/Split Prices
---------------------------

The rules for handling quantity discounts and split price
structures are established by first choosing Quantity/Split
Prices on the System Setup menu. Both sections of the form that
appears are scrollable regions.

Quantity Pricing Codes are a way of recording discounts to be
granted for volume purchases of an inventory item.  For example,
a customer might be   charged $1.00 per unit for a purchase of
10 or fewer units, $0.95 per unit if 11 to 20 units are
purchased, and $0.90 per unit if more than 20 units  are
purchased.  In this example, the break points are 10, 20, and
21.  After selecting a Quantity Code (1 to 199), these values
would be entered  in the Qty 1, Qty 2 and Qty 3 fields, while
the unit prices corresponding  to each break would be entered in
the Price fields.  Up to four break points can be established.

The quantity discounts can be granted only when all of the items
are sold  at one time using the Quantity function in POS.
VisualPOS can not keep track of the number of units sold and
then grant the quantity discount.

The quantity break points and prices are tied to a quantity code
that is later linked to an inventory record in the Data module.
For example, the above quantity structure could be coded as
Quantity Code 1.  If this set of break points and prices was to
be applied to Inventory Item # 1000, a 1 would be entered in the
Quantity Code field on the inventory form during entry of Item
1000 into the inventory database.

Press [F8] to move the cursor to the Split Pricing Codes section
of the form.  Split prices are prices such as two for $0.49,
three for $0.91, and so on.  As with Quantity Prices, split
prices are tied to a code which is  entered in an inventory
record to identify the way in which multiple purchases are to be
handled.

Consider the two for $0.49 example.  The price for the first
unit sold would be $0.25 and for the second unit $0.24.  These
two values would be entered in the first and second price fields
on the form.  The Split Price column of the form shows the
structure you have created so that you can verify that the
correct entries have been made.  The five price fields on  each
row of this section allow you to enter split prices for up to
five items, that is, for a five for $X.XX case.

Press [F10] to save the Quantity and Split Price structures, or
press [ESCAPE] to close the form without saving your entries and
return to the System Setup menu.

3.7 Taxes Setup
---------------

Four tax tables can be defined with VisualPOS.  However, only
two taxes can be applied to an item, the Tax1 (GST for Canada)
and any one of the other three (PST, Tax Three, or Tax Four).
Choose Taxes on the System menu to open the Tax form.  The form
consists of four sections each representing a tax table.  Each
section contains a scrollable region which shows the tax that
applies to ranges of purchase amounts.

Tax Table 1 is reserved for the Federal Tax, the most frequent
and basic tax (GST for Canada).  VisualPOS is shipped with
Canadian GST in Table 1, so no action is required to set up this
table for Canada.  However, if prices in your store include the
GST, you must remove the GST from Table 1.  With the cursor on
any field in Table 1, press [F9] to clear the table.  [F9] can
be used to clear any of the tax tables.

If the GST rate is adjusted in the future an updated tax table
will be available from WIZ-TEC Computing Technologies Inc.
However, it is simple to enter a new tax table.  A simple way to
calculate a tax table is to enter the percentage tax rate in the
Tax % field and press [ENTER].  VisualPOS calculates the table
beginning with a tax amount of one cent.  The first tax amount
in some tax tables is higher than one cent, and in this case it
is necessary to enter the ranges and amounts of tax manually.
You may also enter the tax table to have VisualPOS
calculate/estimate the tax rate.

For Federal tax outside Canada you should re-configure this Tax
1 to the according tax name, rate and table.

The following table shows the first 10 entries in a 10% tax
table (the percentage was chosen for ease of calculation!) in
which tax is not applied to purchases of less than 25 cents.

            LOW         HIGH        AMOUNT
            0.25        0.34        0.03
            0.35        0.44        0.04
            0.45        0.54        0.05
            0.55        0.64        0.06
            0.65        0.74        0.07
            0.75        0.84        0.08
            0.85        0.94        0.09
            0.95        1.04        0.10
            1.05        1.14        0.11
            1.15        1.24        0.12

To enter this table, type the first Low amount and press
[ENTER]. The cursor moves to the first Amount field; type the
first tax amount and  press [ENTER].  VisualPOS completes all of
the remaining entries in the Amount column, and increments each
successive field by one cent.  Type the next Low amount and
press [ENTER].  Note that the High amount on the first line was
updated.  Continue entering the series of Low amounts in the
first column.  VisualPOS "learns" the new tax structure after a
variable number of entries (40 lines are available), and a
message appears indicating that the tax rate has been
calculated.  If this message is not received, or if the
calculated rate doesn't match the rate you were trying to enter,
check your tax calculations.  There is probably an error that is
making it impossible for VisualPOS to determine the rule used to
calculate the tax.

Tax Table 2 is reserved for Provincial Sales Tax (PST).  Press
[F2] to open the Choice List of Provincial tax tables, and
select the table for the province of your operation.  Alberta,
Yukon, and Northwest Territories appear in the Choice List, but
there is no PST in those jurisdictions at present.  When you
select those tables, the Tax Name appears on the Tax form and
the Tax % field shows a zero.  These tables do not have to be
selected in those areas without PST.  If you do select them, the
PST will  appear on receipts but the values will be zeros.  You
can cause a tax to be printed on a receipt only when there is a
taxable amount by including a period as the last character in
the Tax Name field.

Note that there is an additional field on Tables 2, 3, and 4
called Type.  The code in this field is either a C (compound) or
an N (non-compound);    press [SPACE] to change between these
types.  A compound tax is applied to both the price of the item
and the GST, while a non-compound tax applies only to the price
of the item.

If the rate of PST changes, an updated table will be available
from WIZ-TEC Computing Technologies Inc., or you can create a
new tax table as described for Table 1.

Tax Tables 3 and 4 are provided for existing taxes specific to
your jurisdiction such as an amusement tax, a liquor tax, or for
future tax introductions.  If there are presently taxes other
than the GST and PST that apply in your area, identify the Tax
Name and Type and then develop the table in the scrollable
region.  Keep in mind that only one of taxes other than the GST
can be set to "on" in an inventory record.

The Tax Names are entered automatically when tables are selected
from the Choice List, but they can be edited.  The first letter
of the Tax Name that you enter for each tax is used in the POS
module to print codes beside taxable items on receipts.  For
example, if the GST applies to an item and the name in the table
is "GST", a G is printed in the Tax column on the receipt.  If
the item is also subject to Manitoba Provincial Tax  and the Tax
Name in Table 2 is "Manitoba", an M would also appear beside the
item on the receipt.  When the Tax Name field is empty, no code
for the tax is printed on receipts.

Press [F10] to save all of the tax table entries, or press
[ESCAPE] to close the form without saving the information and
return to the System Setup menu.  If no tax tables have been
selected or entered, no taxes will be applied to purchases in
the POS module.

3.8 Printer Setup
-----------------

The types of printers to be used for various operations must be
identified to VisualPOS. Choose Printer Setup from the POS Setup
menu. A form appears where the printers to be used for receipts
and for reports are described.  Use [F7] and [F8] to move
between the two sections.

Position the cursor on the Printer Type field in the Receipt
Printer section and press [F2] to open the Choice List of
receipt printers.  Select the printer type that you have and
press [ENTER].  The various fields in the top section of the
form will be completed with decimal codes that tell your
computer how to communicate with your printer.  Knowledgeable
users may wish to change the codes to allow printing of
different fonts.

If your printer does not appear in the Choice List, consult your
printer manual.  It should give alternate printer types that can
be used in  situations like this.   Select this alternate type
of printer from the  Choice List.

It is possible that neither your printer type nor any of the
alternatives given in your printer manual appear in the Choice
List.  In this case, it is necessary to complete the codes in
each field manually.  Using your printer manual, enter the
decimal codes indicated for each function in the fields on the
form.  There are 32 columns for codes on each line; use the
arrow keys to scroll left and right.

Your manual may give only the hexadecimal codes for each
function.  In this case use the conversion table in Appendix D
to convert hexadecimal codes to decimal codes.  Be careful not
to enter O's instead of zeros; they are not equivalent.  Consult
your dealer if you need assistance.

Press [F8] to move to the lower section of the form, and follow
the same procedures to identify the printer that will be used
for reports.  Enter the number of lines that can be printed on
each page in the Page Length field.  Press [F10] to save the
Printer Set Up information, or press [ESCAPE] to close the form
without saving your entries.

3.9 Messages
------------

Various messages may be printed on receipts.  Choose Messages on
the Printer menu, and a form appears allowing you to enter
messages that will be printed at various positions on each
receipt.  When the form opens note that the Store Name, Address,
and GST Number that you entered on the User Information form
have been completed.  These fields must be changed from within
the User Information form; they can not be changed on the
Messages form.

Beside the Store Name field and other fields on the form, there
are Font Size selections.  Press [SPACE] to select either single
or double wide characters for the field.  Twenty characters can
be printed on a line if double wide characters are chosen, and
40 can be printed in single-wide print.

There are three sets of message fields that can be printed at
three positions on the receipt; at the top, in the body of the
receipt, or after the transaction information. Ten lines of up
to 40 characters can be printed in each message region. If
double wide characters are selected,  only 20 characters can be
printed on each line. Each message area is a  scrollable region;
only three lines of the message show on the form so use the
cursor keys to scroll through each area.  Press [F7] and [F8] to
move between scrollable regions.

The messages to be printed on the receipt could simply be a
greeting or "Thank You", but could also include information
about coming sales events  or hours of operation.  The nature of
the messages is up to you, but keep  in mind that it takes time
and uses paper to print long messages.  Proof read your messages
carefully; errors will leave a poor impression with customers.
Blank lines can be place within the message by typing the Tilde
[~] character alone on a line.

After one receipt has been printed, the first three lines of the
message are printed for the next receipt to speed the printing
process.  This is true even if your messages consist of more
than three lines; the remaining lines of the message are not
printed until a key is pressed beginning the next transaction.
If you are dealing with a high volume operation and want to
print the remaining lines of the message immediately, tear out
the last receipt and press [CLEAR] to complete message printing
for the next receipt.

At the bottom of the Messages form, enter the number of line
feeds (blank lines) to advance the paper to the tear bar.  You
will have to experiment to determine the correct amount of space
to insert.

Press [F10] to save the messages, or press [ESCAPE] to return to
the Printer menu without saving your entries.

3.10 Auto Batch Processing
--------------------------

Auto Batch is a unique way to incorporate VisualPOS with any
third party software/program/batch for your full retail
automation. Once the batch is setup, any clerk can run the batch
easily. It may be used for any kind of task -- multi-store
automatic transaction uploading to the back office, automatic
backup, and any program you want to run. Running the pre-defined
batches directly from VisualPOS may help the you a great deal in
your management, control and automation.

3.10.1 Auto Batch Setup
-----------------------

Press [ENTER] at the Auto Batch Setup menu  in the MNT module,
and the batch definition form will appear. VisualPOS supports up
to 100 definitions.  '##' is the batch number.  The 'Active'
field is to indicate if the batch is active for execution or
not. If it is not active VisualPOS will not execute when
invoking the batch. The 'Description' field is for you to make a
note on this batch. The actual batch command is set in the 'DOS
Program/Batch' field.  It is the command line that VisualPOS
will send to DOS for execution, just like it is entered in DOS
prompt. Only one command line is allowed as it is issued under
DOS.  You may set up multi line batch in DOS batch file (with
BAT extension) and set VisualPOS to invoke the DOS batch file.

You may set up or make changes of each batch, and press [F10] to
save it, or press [ESC] to abort without saving. When saving the
Batch Setup, VisualPOS will compile it into a second smaller
compact file for execution.

3.10.2 Batch Execution
----------------------

To execute batch in MNT, select the Batch Execution menu from
the System menu and press [ENTER].  Use cursor [UP] or [DOWN]
key to locate the batch you want to execute, and press [F10] to
execute.  If the Batch is Active, VisualPOS will shell to DOS
and execute the batch line, and return to the MNT module when
finish.

To execute batch in POS, when no transaction is pending, enter
the batch number to execute and press [EXEC] key. VisualPOS will
immediately shell to DOS for its execution, or  return to POS if
the batch is invalid or inactive.

VisualPOS enforces re-logon after the batch execution.  To
execute batch, you must run VisualPOS through 'VP.EXE'
supervisor program (as normally starting VisualPOS).  To have
VisualPOS return properly, make sure to change the current
directory back to VisualPOS where it executed from.


               CHAPTER 4  POS KEY AND MACRO SETUP
               ==================================

When VisualPOS and the computer are operating as a cash register
(the POS module), certain keys on the keyboard are pressed to
cause specific functions to be performed.  For example, there is
a function called Price Override which is used to override the
price of an item in the inventory database.  This function was
assigned to [  ] on the unshifted keyboard when VisualPOS was
shipped, but you can change the location of this function.  All
of the functions are described in Chapter 8 and are listed  in
Appendix A.

The functions of most of the keys on the keyboard, including the
function keys [F1] to [F10], can be changed by choosing options
from the Keyboard menu.  Remember that these function
assignments apply only to the POS module.  Whenever a module
other than POS is being used, the function keys [F1] through
[F10], will perform the functions described in Chapter 2. Some
of the functions of keys that can not be changed are:
- the numeric keys, 0 through 9;
- [SHIFT] which enables the upper case keyboard;
- [CONTROL] or [CTRL] which enables the control keyboard;
- [ALTERNATE] or [ALT] which enables the alternate keyboard;
- [CAPS LOCK] which locks the keyboard into upper case; and
- [BACKSPACE] or [BACK] which erases the last character typed.

[F1] accesses the on line Help system.  The location of this
function can be changed, but we recommend that you leave it on
[F1]. Throughout this manual it is assumed that Help is on [F1].
The help text associated with each function moves with a
function to its new key location.

4.1 Unshifted Keyboard
----------------------

Choose Unshifted Keyboard on the Keyboard menu.  The keyboard
appears showing the code names of functions assigned to
individual keys.  In the following text of the manual the code
name of each function will be shown in brackets following the
first reference to each function.

To add a function to a key, first highlight that key using the
cursor keys to move.  Press [F2] to display the Choice List of
functions.  Locate the desired function and press [ENTER]. The
code representing the chosen function (e.g., CASH for Cash
Tendered) appears on the key that was highlighted, replacing any
previous function assignment. Remove the function assignment of
a key by choosing Blank Out Previous Entry on the Choice List.
Close the Choice List without selecting a function by pressing
[ESCAPE].

Continue using these procedures to assign or change the
functions of keys on the lower case keyboard. Press [F10] to
save all of the key assignments or press [ESCAPE] to return to
the Keyboard menu without saving any changes.

4.2 Shifted Keyboard
--------------------

Choose Shifted Keyboard on the Keyboard menu. The keyboard that
appears looks the same as the unshifted keyboard, but the
functions on this keyboard are executed only when [SHIFT] is
pressed and held while another  key is pressed.  As described
for the unshifted keyboard, assign or change functions of keys
on the shifted (upper case) keyboard.  Functions can not be
assigned to the cursor keys or to those above them, or to keys
on the number pad on the shifted keyboard.  Press [F10] to save
the function assignments or press [ESCAPE] to return to the
Keyboard menu without saving any changes.

To execute functions assigned to keys on the shifted keyboard,
press and hold [SHIFT] and then press the key with the function
assignment.  Throughout this manual when two keys are to be
pressed at once, the keys are shown with a dash between them.
For example, the Charge to Store Account function might be
assigned to [F10] on the shifted keyboard.  To indicate that
[F10] is to be pressed while [SHIFT] is pressed and held, it
will be written as [SHIFT]-[F10].  If you encounter problems
while using functions, check if [CAPS LOCK] is on.  If it is on,
only the functions on the shifted keyboard are available.

4.3 Control Keyboard
--------------------

Choose Control Keyboard on the Keyboard menu.  This keyboard
looks the same as the first two, but the functions on this
keyboard are executed only when [CTRL] is pressed and held while
another key is pressed.  Assign or change functions of keys on
this keyboard.  Functions can not be  assigned to the cursor
keys or to those above them, or to keys on the  number pad on
the control keyboard.  Press [F10] to save all of the function
assignments or press [ESCAPE] to return to the Keyboard men
without saving any changes.

4.4 Alternate Keyboard
----------------------

Choose Alternate Keyboard on the Keyboard menu.  Again this
keyboard looks the same, but the functions are executed only
when [ALT] is pressed and held while another key is pressed.
Assign or change functions of keys on this keyboard.  Functions
can not be assigned to the cursor keys or to those above them,
or to keys on the number pad on the alternate keyboard. Press
[F10] to save all of the function assignments or press [ESCAPE]
to return to the Keyboard menu without saving any changes.

4.5 PREH84 POS Keyboard
-----------------------

VisualPOS will operate effectively with a standard or extended
PC keyboard.  However, there are keyboards designed specifically
for use in the retail systems.  Most of these POS keyboards are
compatible with the standard PC keyboard but rather with a
physically re-configured layout (may be switchable or
programmable).  Find the POS keyboard to PC keyboard re-map
table and directly configure the standard keyboard according to
the POS keyboard is the easiest way to support and program the
POS keyboard.  PREH84 keyboard is a special programmable POS
keyboard supported by VisualPOS which is re-configured to be a
Non-PC keyboard but may be operated with a PC keyboard
concurrently. It may also be re-configured into a PC keyboard
compatible of your choice, and the VisualPOS keys may be
programmed through the PC keyboard route.  One big advantage of
these two keyboards working concurrently (without conflict) is
to allow VisualPOS to function as a POS register and a computer
more easily at the same time.

The PREH84 keyboard is a small rectangular keyboard with seven
rows and 12 columns of key positions that can be customized to
suit your needs.  Four  key sizes can be used.  The largest key
takes up four positions of the 84 available.  It is often used
for the Cash Tendered function.

Choose PREH84 Keyboard on the Keyboard menu.  Assign or change
functions of keys which will be executed when the key is pressed
on the PREH84 keyboard.  When the keys that take up two, three,
or four positions on the keyboard are used, the function must be
assigned to all of the positions on the keyboard covered by the
key.  For example, if the large square key is placed in the
lower right corner of the keyboard and is to be the CASH
function, the CASH function must be assigned to all four
positions in the  lower right corner of the PREH84 keyboard.

Press [F10] to save the function assignments or press [ESCAPE]
to return to the Keyboard menu without saving any change.

4.6 Define Key Macros
---------------------

Macros are combinations of other keyboard functions.  It is a
very powerful POS tool that instructs the computer to enter a
sequence of keys, and turns the POS register into a powerful,
super fast and easy to operate cash register.  It gives the
VisualPOS users unlimited possibilities and great convenience in
operating the 'dummy cash register'.  For example, one way to
sell a certain item using the POS module is to type the Item #
and then press [AUTO] (Auto Price), which looks up the price of
the item in the inventory database.  These keystrokes required
to sell the item can be stored in a macro which can then be
assigned to a key on the keyboard.  To sell the item, only the
key with the macro assigned to it must be pressed. When this
macro key is pressed, the keystrokes stored in the macro are
replayed just as if they had been entered by the operator.
Macro definitions are useful to speed the sale of commonly sold
items and the entry of common key sequences such as tendering of
a particular credit card and performing a currency exchange.

Choose Define Key Macros on the Keyboard menu.  A Macro
Definition form appears.  Each macro is identified by a code
beginning with M followed by three numbers ranging from 001 to
100.  Enter the number for the macro or  select it by
highlighting it in the scrollable region, and then give the
macro a descriptive name.  The keystrokes to be stored in the
macro are entered in the Macro Commands field.

The following examples illustrate some simple uses of macros:

Assume Item # 2500 in the inventory database is a cup of coffee,
a frequently sold item.  Choose a macro number and then enter a
name like COFFEE for the Macro Name.  In the Macro Commands
field, type 2500 and press [ENTER].  Press [F2] to open the
Choice List of POS functions, select AUTO (Auto Price) and press
[ENTER].  The macro is now complete, and after assigning it to a
key (described below), an operator can sell a cup of coffee
using the POS module simply by pressing the key with the COFFEE
macro assigned to it.

To tender a credit card in payment, an operator enters the code
number of the card, presses [TYPE] (Bank Card Type), and then
types the amount to be charged and presses [CARD] (Card
Tendered).  These keystrokes can be automated with a macro.  A
macro will usually be set up for each type of charge card.
Number and name the macro and then record the commands.  Type
the code number for the credit card and press [ENTER].  Select
TYPE (Bank Card Type), MCDP (Macro # Drop In), and CARD (Card
Tendered) from the Choice List of functions.

MCDP is a special function that allows keyboard entries to be
combined with a macro.  The keyboard entry must be made before
the macro key is pressed.  The entry is inserted into the macro
in the position held by MCDP.  In the above example the operator
would type the amount to be charged before pressing the macro
key, and this number would be inserted where MCDP occurs in the
sequence of macro functions.

When the keystrokes stored in a macro are replayed, the cash
register display flashes through the entries coded in the macro.
You can prevent this by adding two additional functions to a
macro: FRZ (Freeze Display) and UFRZ (Unfreeze Display).  For
the credit card macro described, select FRZ as the first
function and insert UFRZ between TYPE and MCDP.  Now only the
amount and the credit card type will appear on the display when
the macro is executed.

The procedure for assigning macros to keys is similar to
assigning other functions.  Choose one of the options on the
Keyboard menu to select the keyboard where the macro will be
assigned.  Highlight the key to receive the macro and press [F2]
to open the Choice List of functions.  Select MCRO (Macro Key
Definition).  A second Choice List with the names of macros that
you have defined appears when you press [ENTER].  Highlight the
macro to be assigned to the key and press [ENTER].  The code
name of the macro (e.g., M001) appears on the key.  When the
help system is called for a key with a macro assignment, only
the fact that the key has a macro assigned is available.  The
nature of the macro is not available.  The number of macros that
can be assigned to keys on the PREH84 POS keyboard can be
doubled by using the SHFT (Shift Macro) function.  Assign SHFT
to a key using the Choice List.  This function adds one to the
number of a macro which is to be executed.  For example, assume
macro M001 was assigned to a key.  If [SHFT] is pressed and held
and then the key with macro M001 is pressed, macro M002 is
executed.  Be careful not to confuse this POS function with
[SHIFT] on the keyboard.  One way to use the SHFT function is to
assign odd-numbered macros to keys on the PREH84 POS keyboard,
and then press [SHFT] to access even-numbered macros.  If you
use the SHFT function in this way, planning is required during
definition of macros so that macros to be executed from the same
key are next to one another in the macro number sequence.

Press [F10] to save the key assignments after all macros have
been linked to keys, or press [ESCAPE] to return to the Keyboard
menu without saving macro assignments.


                    CHAPTER 5  DATABASE
                    ===================

5.1 Inventory database
----------------------

5.1.1 Introduction
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Inventory is one of the most important issue for retail store
operation. This section will explain how each inventory is
structured in VisualPOS. Before proceeding to entry of inventory
information, it is valuable to spend time considering how you
will record certain types of information. Thought and planning
at the beginning will make your use of VisualPOS reporting
capabilities more effective, and could save you considerable
time in the future by avoiding extensive editing of thousands of
inventory records.  The data field descriptions which follow
will assist you in making informed choices.

5.1.2 Add Inventory Items
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Choose Add from the Database menu to open the Inventory form.
Each field name appears in large print at the top of the form as
you move through the fields.  When you begin typing data into a
field, the field name is replaced by your entry on the display.
The minimum information required to add a record to the
inventory database is an Item # and Sub-department, but be as
complete as possible.

The top section of the form records descriptive information
about the item.  The centre section of the form records the
current and average unit cost for the item.  The bottom section
of the form records pricing, stock and sales information.  The
information in the last four rows of the form can not be changed
using the Add or Edit options.  They can only be changed using
the Adjust Data command or by zeroing totals from within the
Zero Totals section.

When data entry is completed for an inventory item, press [F10]
to save the record.  A new blank Inventory form appears.  Enter
another inventory record or press [ESCAPE] to quit the form
without saving.  Press [F10] to save each new record as it is
completed.

5.1.3 View/Edit/Delete Inventory Item
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Changes to the data for an inventory record are made in
View/Edit mode. Choose Inventory Edit from the database menu.
To view items, enter the number of the item in the field you
wish to use to search the database and press [F3].  The complete
record for that item appears in the Inventory form.  If the item
is not located, a dialogue box will inform you; press any key to
continue.  Search for an item with another number.  Press [F4]
to view the previous inventory record, or press [F5] to view the
next inventory record. Locate the record  to be edited by
entering the text in one of the search fields (Item #, UPC # or
Part #) and pressing [F3].  Make any necessary changes to the
data and press [F10] to save the changes.  Press [F4] to edit
the previous inventory record, or press [F5] to edit the next
inventory record.  Press [F10] after editing each record to save
the changes. Press [F9] to delete the current inventory record
permanently. Press [ESCAPE] to leave View/Edit mode without
saving any changes and to return to the database menu.

5.1.4 Adjust Inventory Items
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The number of Units On Hand and Units On Order may need to be
adjusted for several reasons.  For example, inventory may be
stolen or damaged reducing the number on hand, or units on order
may be received from a supplier increasing the number on hand.
Similarly the number of units on order changes when new orders
are placed and when ordered items are received or an order is
cancelled.  After an inventory record has been entered, the
number of units on hand and on order must also be established.
You should standardize the procedure for your non
open-department based inventory receiving management in this
adjustment function, and it will write to the adjustment journal
for your auditing. All of the changes should be monitored and
recorded to maintain a proper audit trail.  The changes can not
be made with the usual Inventory menu commands (Add or Edit).
They must be made using a special command called Adjust Data.

When an inventory record has been added and the number of Units
On Hand and Units On Order are to be entered, choose Inventory
Adjustment on the database menu.  The Inventory form which
appears is very similar to the form that you are familiar with,
but there are some new data fields in the upper right corner:
Adjust Units On Hand, Adjust Units On Order, and Reason. Changes
to the number of units on hand and on order are recorded in
these two adjustment fields.  Either positive or negative
numbers can be entered to increase or decrease the number of
units.

The Reason field records the reason for the adjustment.  It is a
choice list which operates a little differently from the other
choice lists of VisualPOS.  Instead of the entire list of
choices appearing in a window when [F2] is pressed, a single
entry in the list appears on the Reason field.  When the list
opens the last choice selected for Reason is displayed, but
others are available by scrolling the list.  You can still
scroll up and down the list using the cursor keys or locate
choices by typing the first letter, but only the current entry
in the list appears in the field.  As before, press [ENTER] to
select a choice from the list. You can also type your own entry
for the reason for the adjustment instead of selecting it from
the list.  If you don't select a Reason from the  list, the
field is left blank.

Identify the inventory item to be adjusted by typing the Item #
and pressing [ENTER] or by scanning an item.  If the Current
Unit Cost has changed, enter the new unit cost.  Enter the
number of units for the adjustment and type or choose the
Reason.  Both Units On Hand or Units On  Order can be adjusted
at one time.  Press [ENTER] to save the adjustment entry.

The entry is added to an Adjustment Journal which can be viewed,
printed and deleted using the Zero Totals menu described in
Chapter 9. A maximum of 3000 entries can be stored in the
Adjustment Journal, and so it will be necessary to delete it
from time to time.  VisualPOS will provide warning messages when
the maximum number of entries is approached.

Changes to other data fields on the Inventory form can be made
in Adjust mode, but your entries will not appear on the display
as they are typed like they do in Edit mode. If changes are made
to fields other than the adjustment fields, you must press [F10]
to save the edited record instead  of [ENTER].

5.1.5 Item # Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
An Item # is a unique number that identifies each inventory
item. Operators will enter Item #'s in the POS module to
identify items sold, and the numbers will also identify items
for reports.  Item #'s can range from 100 to 999999.  Numbers
from 1 to 99 are reserved for Open Items -- the Sub-Department
configuration, which are described later in the chapter. Item
#'s do not have to be assigned to inventory items in sequence.
In fact, it may be useful to skip numbers so that future
inventory additions can be inserted at meaningful points in the
sequence.

Inventory numbers can be assigned automatically by VisualPOS
according to the ranges of Item #'s and the increment that you
set for each sub-department in the Department form in the
Department setup section.  When you are adding inventory
records, leave the Item # field blank if you want the number to
be assigned automatically by VisualPOS.  Press [F4] to locate
the next available Item #.  To save the record press [F5]
instead of [F10], and the Item # will be increased by the
increment for the next record. This is a key field which you may
locate use [F3], [F4] and [F5] function keys.

5.1.6 Description Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The description of an inventory item can include a variety of
information. Up to 25 characters are available, although only 19
appear on the POS screen without scrolling the display.  The
description is printed on cash register receipts.  All
descriptions are stored in capital letters so the typing format
is not important.

A description could be as simple as Shirt, but such simple
descriptions provide little information, particularly when
reports are produced. Include as much detail as possible without
interfering with interpretation of the description.  You might
include information describing the manufacturer, the specific
item, and the color and size.  If you do intend to use a coding
scheme for the Description field, it is important to develop it
carefully in advance so that time consuming changes to records
are avoided.

Another important reason for using a complete description is
that operators can verify that labels have not been switched
between items. Software is now available that allows anyone with
a computer and printer to generate bar codes.  Complete
descriptions that appear on the POS display and on receipts
provide a quick check against this possibility.

Note: VisualPOS supports a special Post-Paid time renting charge
ability (based on minutes, hours, days) which uses this field as
'TIMED ????' setup (???? stands for MINU, HOUR, DAY) and uses
the note field for time and customer tracking.  Please refer to
our newest VisualPOS update for more capability and possible
changes for renting support.

5.1.7 UPC Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
UPC stands for Universal Product Code, also known as a Bar Code.
The standard UPC codes used in North America consist of either
6 or 12 numbers.  Codes commonly used in other areas (e.g.
Europe) may contain as many as 20 numbers.  The UPC is converted
to a Bar Code by drawing two dark bars and two light spaces for
each number of the UPC.  The first digit of the code is a Number
System Character which is a key to the numbers that follow it.
The next five digits represent the Manufacturer Code, and the
next five digits the Product or Item Code.  The last digit is
the Check Sum Digit, which may be used to verify that the code
has been read correctly.  VisualPOS does not use the Check Sum
Digit, and the laser scanner should be set so that it is not
transmitted (see Appendix E).

When a bar code is printed on an inventory item, a laser scanner
can be used to read the code and identify the item.  The code
can also be entered manually by typing the UPC #.
Identification of items is possible because the code contains
numbers identifying the manufacturer, and numbers identifying
the individual item or product.  The UPC # is cross referenced
to the Item # that you enter in VisualPOS.

Enter the UPC # printed on an inventory item.  Duplicate numbers
are not permitted by VisualPOS; a warning message appears when
saving a record if duplication exists.

If an item does not have a UPC #, you should develop a number.
We suggest that you use an 11 digit UPC # with 99999 for the
first five digits. These digits normally code the manufacturer,
and it is unlikely that any manufacturer has been assigned this
number.  Use the last six digits to code the Item #.  This is a
key field which you may locate use [F3], [F4] and [F5] function
keys.

5.1.8 Sub-department & Department Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The sub-departments were defined in the department setup
section.  Press [F2] to open the Choice List of sub-departments.
 The list includes all of the sub-departments that you defined.
Highlight the sub-department in the list and select it by
pressing [ENTER].  The number and name of the sub-department
appear in the field, and the Department that it is linked to
also appears.  The Department field can not be changed on the
inventory form because the linkage to the sub-department was
established in its setup section.  All the sub-department will
be reported to up to 26 department groups. Inventory items,
sub-department and department group are three basic levels of
VisualPOS inventory control and management.

5.1.9 Color Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
An item may be available in a variety of colors, and each color
can be stored as a separate inventory item with its own Item #.
The advantage of maintaining separate records for each color is
that more information about sales and inventory can be obtained;
perhaps one color sells better than others and more inventory
should be kept or ordered.  Color information can be entered as
full text like BLACK or as a code like BLK.  If codes are used,
greater care must be exercised to ensure that they are used
consistently.  The report functions of VisualPOS can search for
particular records based on descriptive data fields.  If codes
are not applied consistently the report functions may not locate
all of the items that should be included in a report.

The Color field need not be restricted to item color.
Information about material might also be included.  Use this
field in the way that best suits the item and your reporting
needs.  Again it is best to provide as much information as
possible at the beginning, because revising thousands of
inventory records is time consuming.  Plan ahead, anticipating
your future needs not your present requirements.

5.1.10 Size Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Recording a size or size code for an item permits detailed
monitoring of   sales and greater detail in reporting.  A
combination of text and numeric data is permitted for this field.

5.1.11 Part # Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Enter up to 10 numbers and letters to identify the
manufacturer's part number if it is appropriate to the item.
Including the Part # in the inventory record will assist in
re-ordering items.  Many manufacturers now use the UPC # for the
Part #, and if this is the case it is not necessary to complete
this field.

5.1.12 Vendor # Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Vendors are the companies who supply your inventory.  When the
vendor database is created, the names of vendors are added to a
Choice List for the Vendor # field.  You may wish, therefore, to
enter your vendor records before entering inventory records.
Creation of records describing vendors is described in the next
chapter.  Press [F2] to open the Choice List and select the
primary (main) supplier of the item from the Choice List.

5.1.13 Alternate Vendor #1 and #2 Fields
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
An inventory item may be supplied by an alternate vendor if for
some reason it is not available from the primary vendor, or if
another vendor offers a better price.  Select secondary
suppliers using the Choice List.

5.1.14 Tax 1 (Federal Tax, GST for Canada) Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
It is usually used for Federal Tax (GST for Canada) which is the
most common and basic level of tax for goods and services.  The
setup is in the Tax form of VisualPOS which includes rate,
table, and tax title/name.  The following uses Canadian GST as
an example for references, which may vary from Federal Tax in
U.S. and other countries.  Please refer to tax setup section for
more information.

Press [SPACE] to select Yes (Y) if an item is taxable, or No (N)
if it is not taxable under the Tax 1.  If you select Yes, Tax 1
will be applied to the item when it is sold in the POS module
unless the tax is overridden by customer settings.  (In the
future certain people may be exempt from the Federal Tax or GST).

If you indicate that GST is to be charged, Tax Table 1 must be
completed in the Taxes setup section.  If a GST-taxable item is
sold when Tax Table 1 is empty, no tax is charged.

5.1.15 Tax 2 (PST or Provincial Sales Tax) Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Tax level 2 is most frequently used for Provincial Sales Tax
(PST) which is the next level of tax to the Federal Tax (GST for
Canada). Provincial Sales Tax is collected on a wide range of
goods and services in applicable provinces or states. The setup
is in the Tax form of VisualPOS which includes rate, table, and
tax title/name.  Please refer to the tax setup section for more
information.

Press [SPACE] to select Yes if an item is taxable, or No if it
is not taxable by a PST.  If you select Yes, PST will be applied
to the item when it is sold in the POS module unless the tax is
overridden by customer settings. Certain people (e.g., diplomats
and Treaty Indians in Canada) are exempt from PST.

If the PST is set to Yes, Tax Three and Tax Four are
automatically set to No.  Only one of these three taxes can be
applied to a purchase.

If you indicate that PST is to be charged, Tax Table 2 must be
completed in the Tax setup section.  If a PST-taxable item is
sold when Tax Table 2 is empty, no tax is charged.

5.1.16 Tax Three & Four Fields
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
As described in the Tax setup section, Tax 3 and Tax 4 are
provided for additional local taxes, or for future taxes.  Press
[SPACE] to change between Yes and No for these taxes, indicating
whether they are to be applied to purchases of the item as they
are recorded in the POS module. If Tax Three or Tax Four is set
to Yes, the other two non-Federal (non-GST) taxes are
automatically set to No.  Only one of these three taxes can be
applied to an item.

If you indicate that Tax Three or Four is to be charged, Tax
Table 3 or 4 must be completed in the Tax setup section.  If an
item receiving these taxes is sold when their corresponding tax
tables are empty, no tax is charged.

5.1.17 Scale Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
If an item is to be weighed by an electronic scale connected to
your computer, press [SPACE] to change the entry to Yes, or
leave the entry at No if the item is not to be weighed.  When an
item is flagged to be weighed, the scale is automatically
activated when the item is identified in POS.  The Current Unit
Cost must be recorded per kilogram for items to be weighed.  The
number of decimals allowed during entry of a quantity must also
be set to a minimum of three when you are using a scale (see
Chapter 3, System Configuration).

5.1.18 Note Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The note field is provided to record any additional information
you wish to store with the inventory record.  Sixty-nine
characters are available. This note field is also to be used for
special renting items (see description field) for time and
customer tracking.  If you set a item as a pre-paid timed
renting item, reserve this note field for VisualPOS to use.
Please refer to the newest VisualPOS update for more capability
and update on the renting support.

5.1.19 Current Unit Cost Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Current Unit Cost is the most recent price paid to a vendor
for a unit of this inventory item.  This field is linked to the
three Price and Gross Margin fields.  If a price is entered in
one of the Price fields, the corresponding Gross Margin is
calculated using the Current Unit Cost.  If the Gross Margin is
entered, the corresponding Price is calculated using the Current
Unit Cost.

5.1.20 Average Unit Cost To Date Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This field is updated by VisualPOS and can not be edited.  The
value displayed is affected by adjustments to the data made
using the Adjust option.

The Average Unit Cost To Date is the average of the prices paid
to vendors for each unit of an inventory item.  For example, if
you purchase 10 units at $1 each and 10 units at $2 each the
Average Unit Cost To Date is $1.50.

5.1.21 Price #1 Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Price 1 is the price that will normally be charged for an
inventory item. When the item is to be weighed, record the price
per kilogram.  This price can be overridden manually, for
example in the case of a mark down.  Price 1 may be overridden
automatically in two situations.  If the store has a preferred
customer or frequent buyer program which charges lower prices to
certain customers (see Price 2 below), the lower price will be
charged automatically.  A sale or promotional price (see Price 3
below) may also override Price 1.  VisualPOS will always charge
the lowest price to which a customer is entitled.

Price 1 can be entered, or can be calculated by choosing a gross
margin percentage (profit) desired for the item.  If Price 1 is
entered, Gross Margin 1 will be calculated automatically, and
vice versa.  (See Gross Margin % 1 below).

5.1.22 Price #2 Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Price 2 is an alternative price to Price 1, and could be a
preferred customer or wholesale price.  It can be invoked by an
automatic or manual override.  An automatic override would occur
if a customer record showed that the customer was entitled to
Price 2 instead of Price 1.  A manual override of Price 2 might
be performed for a special mark down that isn't recorded in the
inventory record.

5.1.23 Price #3 Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Price 3 is usually a promotional or sale price available for a
limited time period.  It can be invoked by an automatic or
manual override.  An automatic override is tied to promotional
Start and Stop dates.  Price 3 is automatically invoked at 12:01
AM of the Start Date and revoked at 11:59 PM of the Stop Date.
For example, if a Start and Stop Dates of  06/01/91 and 06/03/91
were entered, Price 3 would begin at 12:01 AM on June 1/91, and
would stop at 11:59 PM on June 3/91.

If Start and Stop dates are not entered, Price 3 could be
charged as a wholesale price by a manual override of Price 1
using the PRCE (Price Level Change) function.  Price 3 could
also be set as the price to be charged to customers in the
customer records.

5.1.24 Start Promotional Price #3 Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This field records the date when Promotional Price 3 becomes
effective for this item.  Some customers may be entitled to
receive a price that is lower than the current promotional
price.  VisualPOS ensures that the customer is charged the
lowest price to which he/she is entitled.

5.1.25 Stop Promotional Price #3 Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This field records the date when Price 3 is revoked and Price 1
is reactivated for this item.

5.1.26 Gross Margins Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Gross Margin Percentage is the % profit realized by the sale
of an item at the according Price (Gross Margin 1 for Price 1,
etc.).  For example, if an item is purchased from a supplier for
50 cents and sold to a customer for $1.00, the gross margin is
100% (A profit of 50 cents on an item cost of 50 cents).  In
general gross margin is calculated as profit divided by the unit
cost and then multiplied by 100%.  If a value is entered for the
Gross Margin (GM1 for example), the according price (Price 1 in
this example) will be calculated using this percentage and the
Current Unit Cost, while the Gross Margin will be calculated if
a value for its according Price is entered. GM2 and GM3 operate
the same way but using Price 2 or Price 3 as appropriate.

In the retail business,  'Gross Margin' may be defined and
calculated in different ways.  The other most common formula is
profit over the selling price.  Therefore if an item is
purchased for 50 cents and sold for $1.00, the 'Gross Margin'
will be 50% (a profit of 50 cents on a selling price of $1.00).
These Margins are thus also referred to as 'Count Down' or
'Count Up' margins.  For some stores (e.g. grocery stores) where
the cost of supply varies lot, it may be more useful to choose
profit over selling price for calculating the margin; while for
other stores (e.g. department stores) where the cost of supply
is relatively constant, it may be more useful to choose profit
over cost for calculating the margin.

VisualPOS uses the profit over cost formula which will present a
higher margin percentage. Either of the calculations is
acceptable and meaningful. In addition, the cost used in
calculating 'Gross Margin' may base on either the average cost
which is mathematically balanced, or the current cost which may
forecast the further cost better. The latter is more widely used.

5.1.27 Split Price Codes Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A Split Price Code activates the split price setup in the
Quantity/Split setup form.  An example of a split price is 2 for
49 cents.  The first item would be sold at Split Price 1 and the
second item at Split Price 2.  These two prices are entered with
a Split Price Code in the Quantity/Split Prices form.  When the
item is sold in POS, VisualPOS automatically charges the prices
identified by the Split Price Code.

Split Price Codes 2 and 3 operate the same way as Code 1 but use
the Split Prices set in the Quantity/Split setup section
corresponding to the Split Codes. VisualPOS keeps track of the
complete transaction in POS and recognizes the Split Price Codes
when units accumulate.

5.1.28 Quantity Codes Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A discount may be credited for bulk (quantity) purchases of an
item, for example, $1 each or 12 for $10.  This quantity
discount would be set in the Quantity/Split prices form, where
it is assigned a code number.  This code number is entered in
the Quantity Code field on the Inventory form.  When the items
are sold in POS, the quantity code identifies the discount that
is to be granted.  However, all of the items must be sold at one
time using the Quantity function in POS in order for the
non-group discount to be granted.

Quantity Codes 2 and 3 operate the same way as Code 1 but use
the Break Prices set in the Quantity/Split setup form
corresponding to the Quantity Codes. VisualPOS keeps track of
the complete transaction in POS and recognizes the group
Quantity Code when quantity is achieved.

5.1.29 Deposits Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A deposit is an amount to be charged automatically as a deposit
when an item is sold.  This function is typically used to charge
a deposit on soft drink bottles.  The deposit amount is not
taxable and thus excluded from any tax calculation in the POS.

5.1.30 Minimum/Maximum On Hand and Reserved Fields
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Minimum On Hand is the minimum number of units of this item that
should be kept in inventory.  Maximum On Hand is the maximum
number of units of this item that should be kept in inventory.

Items can be reserved for customers and so be flagged as
unavailable for sale.  Enter the number of reserved items in the
Reserved field.  The number entered in this field does not
affect the number of Units on Hand.  VisualPOS does not enforce
these values to be filled into the fields but rather to be used
as remarks and references for inventory management.

5.1.31 Units On Hand, at Cost or at Retail Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Units On Hand (UOH) is updated automatically by VisualPOS as
units are sold in POS.  The initial number on hand is
established using the Adjust Data command on the Inventory menu.
This command is also used to record other adjustments to the
number of units resulting from theft, damage, and so on.  The
number of units on hand is shown in the Units On Hand (UOH)
field on the POS screen.  The number of units on hand can be
negative when, for example, items are sold before the number on
hand has been entered, or the store management did not update
the number on hand properly or at all.

The UOH at Cost is the dollar value of units on hand based on
the Average Unit Cost, and is calculated automatically by
VisualPOS.  The value changes when the number of units on hand
is adjusted and when items are sold.  If the number of units on
hand is negative, the cost and retail values are also displayed
as negative amounts.

The UOH at Retail is the retail dollar value of units on hand
based on Price 1, and is calculated automatically by VisualPOS.
The value changes when the number of units on hand is adjusted
and when items are sold.  All inventory is valued at the current
value of Price 1.

5.1.32 Units On Order, at Cost or at Retail Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The number of Units On Order (UOO) can be changed only by using
the Adjust command. The UOO at Cost is the dollar value of units
on order based on the Current Unit Cost, and is calculated
automatically by VisualPOS.  The value changes when the number
of units on order is adjusted and when the Current Unit Cost
changes.  The UOO at Retail is the retail dollar value of units
on order based on Price 1, and is calculated automatically by
VisualPOS.  The value changes when the number of units on order
is adjusted.  All inventory is valued at the current value of
Price 1.

5.1.33 Sold This Month, at Cost or at Retail Fields
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The number of units of the item that have been sold this month
(MTD) is accumulated until the Zero Monthly Totals or Zero
Yearly Totals function is completed (see Zero Totals section for
more information).

The MTD at cost is the dollar value of units that have been sold
this month based on the Average Unit Cost at the time each sale
is made, and is accumulated until the Zero Monthly Totals or
Zero Yearly Totals function is performed.

The MTD at retail shows the dollar value of units that have been
sold this month based on the actual prices charged.  The field
is updated automatically by VisualPOS and is reset to zero when
the Zero Monthly Totals or Zero Yearly Totals function is
performed.  These values are updated instantly in POS across the
Network.

5.1.34 Sold This Year, at Cost or at Retail Fields
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The number of units of the item that have been sold this year
(YTD) is accumulated until the Zero Yearly Totals function is
performed.

The YTD at Cost field shows the dollar value of units that have
been sold this year based on the Average Unit Cost at the time
each sale is made.  It is updated automatically by VisualPOS and
is reset to zero when the Zero Yearly Totals function is
performed.

The YTD at Retail field records the dollar value of units that
have been sold this year based on the actual prices charged.  It
is updated automatically by VisualPOS and is reset to zero when
the Zero Yearly Totals function is performed.

These values are updated instantly in POS across the Network.

5.2 Open Items -- Sub-Department
--------------------------------

5.2.1 Introduction
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Open Items are classes of inventory items with some common
characteristic. They are used when inventory items are not
identified individually by their own inventory record, but
instead by one common record.  For example, if you do not plan
to identify different grocery items as they are sold but instead
record them simply as "Grocery", an Open Item with the
description of "Grocery" may be entered.  In a sense an Open
Item is the same as a sub-department, and in fact the definition
of sub-departments created in their setup section also
establishes the Open Item records.  Therefore, Open Items can
not be added through the Inventory menu but can only be edited.

Choose Edit from the Inventory menu in the database module.
Enter the number of a sub-department (from 1 to 99) in the Item
# field and press [F3]. The following describes the data fields
on the Inventory form required to define Open Items.

5.2.2 Item # Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Item #'s 1 to 99 are reserved for Open Items.  Note that the
Description of the Item is the same as the Description of
Sub-department entered on the Department form. The
Sub-department number and name and the Department code are also
shown as they were entered on the Department form.  These three
fields can not be changed from within the database section.
They must be changed on the Department form in the Maintenance
module.  The Description can be changed, and should be typed the
way you want it to appear on receipts.

5.2.3 Tax Fields Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The tax status of all items represented by the Open Item must be
the same. Set up your sub-departments so that all items in each
sub-department have the same tax status.

Press [SPACE] to select Yes (Y) if an item is taxable, or No (N)
if it is not taxable under each of the taxes.  If you select
Yes, that tax will be applied to the item when it is sold in the
POS module unless overridden by customer settings.   Only one of
the three non-GST taxes can be set to Yes.

If you indicate that a tax is to be charged, the corresponding
Tax Table must be completed in the Tax setup section.  If a
taxable item is sold when its Tax Table is empty, then no tax is
charged.

5.2.4 Approximate Gross Margin % Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Gross Margin % is the percentage profit realized by the sale
of an item.  Gross Margin is calculated as the Unit Profit over
Unit Cost times 100%.  For Open Items only an approximation of
this value can be determined because individual inventory items
that have different unit costs and unit prices are not tracked.

Enter the Approximate Gross Margin % for the Open Item.
VisualPOS uses this value to calculate an approximate Monthly
and Yearly Cost for all items sold in this Open Item using the
revenue (At Retail) figures collected from the POS module.

5.2.5 Sales Table Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The table at the bottom of the form shows sales posted to the
Open Item from the POS module.  The Sold This Month and Sold
This Year fields are the number of units sold to date.  The At
Retail fields are the amounts collected for all items sold
during the period.  As described above, the At Cost fields are
estimates calculated using the Approximate Gross Margin % and At
Retail figures.

Press [F10] to save the Open Item record.  Press [F4] or [F5] to
locate the previous or next record to edit, or enter the Item #
and press [F3] to locate a specific record.  Press [ESCAPE] to
return to the Inventory menu without saving the changes.

5.2.6 Open Item Keys Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
When an Open Item has been defined it can be assigned to a key
on the keyboard for use in POS.  An item belonging to the Open
Item can be sold by pressing the key with the Open Item
assignment.  An Item # or UPC # which can not be found in the
Inventory database can also be sold as an Open Item.

Choose one of the keyboards from the Keyboard menu in the
Maintenance module, and then select a key to receive the Open
Item.  Press [F2] to open the Choice List of functions and
select Open Department Definition (OPEN).  A sub-list of Open
Items appears showing the names defined in the Departments
section.  Highlight an Item to be assigned to the key and press
[ENTER] to select it and close the list.  A code appears on the
key showing that it has been assigned an Open Item.  Press [F10]
to save the key assignments or press [ESCAPE] to close the form
without saving.

5.3 Customer database
---------------------

5.3.1 Introduction
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Customer menu in the Maintenance module is used to view,
edit, add and delete records describing your customers.  Records
describing individual customers are not required unless you
select the Customer Number Required option on the System
Configuration form accessed from the System Setup menu in the
Maintenance module.  A customer record is also required if a
customer is to be extended credit.  However, it is beneficial to
both the retailer and the customer to develop customer records.

Customer records allow a retailer to obtain valuable information
about customers, such as in which departments they spend (or
don't spend) their money, and the demographic groups into which
their customers fall.  The customer database can be used to
produce mailing labels for promotional or other communication
material.  A customer record can also provide security to the
retailer by recording the numbers of credit cards or
store-issued  ID cards that a customer uses.

Probably the most important advantage of being included in your
customer database from a customer's point of view, is that
he/she can receive the lowest price possible at the store by
providing information to complete a customer record.  A discount
rate and the price level to be charged are both stored in the
customer record, as are any tax exemptions.

Maintaining contact with the store by being included on the
mailing list also has advantages; advance notice of new
inventory or sales events may be received.  The customer record
can also provide security for the customer, because the retailer
can check that valid credit and ID cards are being used for
purchases.

VisualPOS currently supports a powerful and programmable
customer invoicing ability right in POS.  Almost all customer
information may be programmed into the invoice definition file
and be printed after the transaction.  The newest update of
VisualPOS also supports add/edit customers on demand in POS (in
addition to Inventory and Vendor).

5.3.2 Add Customer
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Choose Add from the Customer menu to open the Customer data
form.  Each field name appears in large print on the display at
the top of the form as you move through the fields.  As you
start typing data into a field, the field name is replaced with
your entry.  All text is displayed and stored in capital
letters, so your typing format is not important.  The minimum
information required to add a customer is a Customer #.

The top section of the form is devoted to personal information
describing the customer.  The centre section records
classification information, such as the type and group of
customer, the price and tax levels he/she is to be charged, and
credit information.  The bottom section breaks down purchases
made by the customer into departments.

When data entry for a customer record is finished, press [F10]
to save the information.  A new blank Customer form appears.
Enter another customer record or press [ESCAPE] to quit the form
without saving and return to the Customer menu.  Press F10 after
entering each customer record.

5.3.3 View/Edit/Delete Customer
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Changes to the record for a customer are made in Edit mode.
Choose Edit from the Customer menu.  Locate the record for the
customer to be edited by entering the Customer # or Last Name
and pressing [F3].  The complete record for that customer
appears in the form.  After examining the information for a
customer, search for another customer record, or press [F4] or
[F5] to view the previous or next customer record. Make any
necessary changes to the data and press [F10] to save the
changes.  Press [F9] key to delete the customer record
permanently from the database.  Search for a new customer record
to edit, or locate records using [F4] and [F5].  Press [ESCAPE]
to leave Edit mode without saving, or after you have saved the
last edited record.

5.3.4 Customer # Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A Customer Number is a number between 1 and 999999 that uniquely
identifies a customer.  This is the key field around which the
customer database is organized; duplicate numbers are not
permitted.  Customer numbers do not have to be assigned in
sequence.  A coding scheme could be  built in to customer
numbers by reserving blocks of numbers for different types of
customers (e.g., individuals versus corporations).  This is a
key field which you may search for using [F3], [F4] and [F5]
function keys.

5.3.5 Last & First Name Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Enter the customer's Last and First Name, or the name of a
company representative if it is a corporate account.  Always
take great care to ensure names are spelled correctly.  Errors
leave a poor impression of your operation.  This is a key field
which you may search for using [F3], [F4] and [F5] function keys.

5.3.6 Tax Exemption # Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Treaty Indians and foreign diplomats are exempt from PST.
Exempt individuals receive a Tax Exemption # which should be
entered in that field.

5.3.7 Type & Group Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Type and Group fields are provided for customer
classification information.  The coding scheme used is up to
you.  It could be very simple (e.g., Regular or Preferred), or
could be a code that incorporates age, sex, size, or any other
type of information that would prove useful to your business.
Consider carefully the kind of classification information you
might require.  Also consider the type of information that you
may reasonably expect your customers to provide.  It is much
simpler to enter data once than to edit many customer records in
the future when your coding system has proven to be inadequate.

5.3.8 Discount Rate Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Discount Rate is a percentage discount to be granted to the
customer on every sale.  When items are sold using the POS
module, the discount rate is applied to whichever price level is
charged, so care should be exercised when entering the discount
rate.  A discount applied to a promotional price could produce a
sale amount less than the item's cost to you.  A 10% discount
rate is entered as 10.00, not as 0.10.

5.3.9 Price Code Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Price Code is the price level, either 1, 2, or 3 which the
customer should be charged.  A customer with Price Code 1 will
never be offered price level 2.  A customer with Price Code 2
will be offered the lower of price levels 1 and 2.  Similarly a
customer with Price Code 3 is charged the lowest of the three
price levels.  It is not necessary to assign a customer Price
Code 3 in order to make them eligible for promotional prices
(Price 3). All customers are automatically eligible for a
promotional price, regardless of the Price Code assigned to them.

5.3.10 Taxes Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Identify the taxes that a customer should be charged for taxable
purchases.  Press [SPACE] to change the taxable status between
Yes and No for each tax.  If the tax status is Yes, that tax
will be charged on taxable items.  Customers will be charged the
taxes unless they are tax exempt; enter a Tax Exemption #.  If
there is no customer record showing their tax status, the
applicable taxes will be charged.

5.3.11 Credit Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The three credit fields are for credit accounts with your store.
Enter the Credit Limit in that field.

The Terms field records the terms of account payment and appears
on the Register screen when a customer number is entered.  The
daily, monthly, or annual interest rate, or all three could be
entered.  Some creditors grant discounts when payments are made
early.  The terms might be written as 2/10, n/60.  These terms
mean that a discount of 2% is granted if the invoice is paid
within 10 days, and that payment must be made within the credit
period of 60 days.  Another term you might see is n/10 EOM which
means the invoice is payable 10 days after the end of the month.
You could also record cheque restrictions or similar
information in the Terms field, but be aware that the contents
of the field are displayed on the Register screen.

The Balance is the credit balance for the customer, which is
updated automatically by VisualPOS.

5.3.12 Purchase Table Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The bottom section of the form is a scrollable region.  It
records the month-to-date and year-to-date costs and retail
values of items purchased by the customer, broken down by
department.  The information is calculated automatically by
VisualPOS, and can be viewed but not edited.  The table could be
printed using the reporting functions described in Chapter 8.
Use the cursor keys to view all of the information in the table.
 The  names of departments defined in the Maintenance module are
shown in the first column of this table.

5.4 Vendor database
-------------------

5.4.1 Add Vendors
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Choose Add from the Vendor menu to open the Vendor form.  Each
field name appears in large print on the display at the top of
the form as you move through the fields.  When you begin typing
data into a field, the field name is replaced on the display by
your entry.  The minimum information required to add a vendor
record is a Vendor #.

The top section of the form records descriptive information
about the vendor, including the names of important contacts.
The centre section is used for financial information, and the
Notes field at the bottom provides space for four lines of text
about the vendor.

When data entry for a vendor record is finished, press [F10] to
save the   information.  A new blank data form appears.  Enter
another vendor record  or press [ESCAPE] to quit the form
without saving and return to the Vendor menu.  Press [F10] to
save each vendor record to the database.

5.4.2 View/Edit/Delete Vendors
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Changes to the data for a vendor record are made in Edit mode.
Choose Edit from the Vendor menu.  Locate the data form for the
Vendor # to be edited by entering the Vendor # in that field and
pressing [F3].  The complete record for that vendor appears in
the form.  After examining the information for a vendor, search
for another Vendor #, or press [F4] or [F5] to view the previous
or next vendor record.  Make changes to the data fields and
press [F10] to save the changes.  Search for a new vendor record
to edit, or locate vendor records using [F4] and [F5].  Press
[F9] to delete the vendor record permantly.  Press [ESCAPE] to
leave Edit mode without saving, or after you have saved the last
edited record.

5.4.3 Vendor # Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A Vendor Number is a number between 1 and 9999 that uniquely
identifies a vendor; duplicate numbers are not permitted.
Vendor numbers do not have to be assigned in sequence.  Blocks
of numbers could be reserved for vendors who supply similar
types of inventory items (e.g., shirts or hardware) or supply
the inventory for certain departments or sub-departments.  This
is a key field which you may locate use [F3], [F4] and [F5]
function keys.

5.4.4 Name Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Enter the complete Name of the vendor; 25 characters are
available.  This is a key field which you may locate use [F3],
[F4] and [F5] function keys.

5.5 Operator database
---------------------

5.5.1 Add Operators
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Choose Add from the Operator menu to open the operator data
form.  Each field name appears in large print on the display at
the top of the form as you move through the fields.  When you
begin typing data into a field, the field name is replaced by
your entry on the display.  All text is stored and displayed in
capital letters so your typing format is not important.   The
minimum information required to add an operator is an Operator #
and Logon #.  When no System Access Authorization is selected or
created, the operator will be allowed only to log on and log
off.  The top section of the form records personal and pay rate
information about the operator.  The centre section records
system security information, and the bottom section records
sales data by department and is updated automatically by
VisualPOS.

When data entry for an operator is finished, press [F10] to save
the information.  A new blank data form appears.  Enter another
operator record or press [ESCAPE] to quit the form and return to
the Operator menu. Press [F10] after adding each operator record.

5.5.2 View/Edit/Delete Operators
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Changes to the data for an operator are made in Edit mode.
Choose Edit from the Operator menu.  Locate the operator record
to be edited by entering the Operator # in that field and
pressing [F3].  After examining the information for an operator,
search for another Operator #, or press [F4] or [F5] to view the
previous or next operator record.  Make any changes to the data
fields and press [F10] to save the changes.  To delete an
operator record permantly, press [F9] key.  Search for a new
operator record to edit, or locate operator records using [F4]
and [F5].  Press [ESCAPE] to leave Edit mode without saving or
after pressing [F10] to save the last edited record.

5.5.3 Operator # Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
An Operator # is a number between 1 and 99 that uniquely
identifies an operator; duplicate numbers are not permitted.
The Operator # is printed on all receipts produced using the POS
module and is displayed on the Register screen while the
operator is logged on.  This is a key field which you may locate
use [F3], [F4] and [F5] function keys.  An operator number must
be assigned to operator VisualPOS.

5.5.4 Last & First Name Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This is a key field which you may locate use [F3], [F4] and [F5]
function keys.

5.5.5 Logon # Field
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Press [F8] when in the Notes field to move the cursor to Logon #
field.  The Logon # is the secret code of up to four characters
that the operator enters to log on to VisualPOS.  Duplicate
Logon numbers are not allowed.  The code does not appear on the
display as it is typed or if the record is later accessed in any
other mode, nor will it be shown during log on.  The Logon #
should be assigned to each operator by management.  When a Logon
# consists of four characters, [LOG] does not have to be pressed
to complete the log on process.  However, when the Logon # has
fewer than four characters, [LOG] must be pressed to complete
the log on.  VisualPOS's Logon # is the security authorization
number to log on to use VisualPOS and is the unique number to
identify the operator to the system.  The store owner must keep
track of all the operators' Logon #s  separately outside the
system and make sure no duplicated logon # is assigned to
different operators.


                    CHAPTER 6  POINT OF SALE MODULE
                    ===============================

6.1 Introduction
----------------

The Point of Sale (POS) module is the component of VisualPOS
that operators will use to processing customer transactions,
that is, the Electronic Cash Register (ECR, Register mode).
VisualPOS's POS ability goes far beyond a ECR or an ordinary PC
based POS terminal.  The basic POS module includes the X and Z
reports summarizing journal entries and a Training mode that
operators can use to learn the Register mode.  Each mode and its
report are explained in the following sections. This Chapter
will focus on the basic POS functions in the POS module.  Please
refer to the following Chapters for special POS functions in the
POS module.

6.2 Log On
----------

The POS module is loaded when VisualPOS is started from DOS.
POS can also be loaded by choosing the option from the Module
menu in any module within VisualPOS.  When the system is started
from DOS, the register screen appears, and you are prompted to
enter a Log On number.  Type in the number assigned to you.  The
Log On  indicator stops flashing and the Mode Indicator shows
that the Register mode is activated after a valid Logon # is
entered.   This log on procedure need to be performed only once
to gain access to the entire VisualPOS system.  When the POS
module is accessed from another module within VisualPOS, the
logon procedure is not required because you have already logged
on.   By default shipped with the product, the valid logon #  is
'1111'.

If you wish to continue using the Register mode, you need to do
nothing; the cash register is active.  However, to use one of
the other modules, produce an X or Z report, use Training mode,
or leave the system, you must choose the option from the
Selection menu.  Press [KYLK]  ([K] on the default keyboard) to
view the Selection menu.  This menu can not be viewed until an
operator has logged on successfully.

Logon security is an effective protection against any third
party from entering VisualPOS system.  Whenever a clerk is going
to leave the register, or idle the register for a while, it is
very important to set VisualPOS to [LOGON] mode to prevent
anyone from accessing the system without security logon.  A good
logon practice will ensure VisualPOS to distinguish different
operation clerks, and write proper audit of the Receipt Journal
and transaction total summaries.  If you do want to manage your
clerks (e.g. commission sales), and obtain proper reports and
audits, you should assign different logon numbers to each clerk
and enforce proper logon practice.  For 1 to 2 person small
stores, the biggest advantage is to prevent outsiders from using
or messing the system.

6.3 Register Mode
-----------------

When a logon is successfully completed, VisualPOS is in the
Register mode.  The Operator Number assigned to you appears on
the display at the top of the screen, and the electronic journal
shows the date and time that you accessed POS.  The far right
status column also shows that you have logged on.  Log off the
system by pressing [LOG].  This locks the terminal and brings up
the Log On panel.  Enter your Logon # again. The Training Mode
emulates this Register Mode as described below.

6.4 Register Screen Layout
--------------------------

The very top line shows Time, Date, Operating Clerk #, Store #,
Register #, current (when in transaction) or next (when
transaction is completed) transaction number, and the register
operating mode from left to right.  The VisualPOS transaction
number is circulative  from 1 to 30000, and is used as the
invoice number in the programmable invoicing.  When writing to
the transaction ASCII export file (if enabled in the system
setup), the transaction number is grouped with a 3 digit (less
or equal to 250) store number and a 2 digit register number
making the total to 10 digits. An additional 6 digit date prefix
is also attached to provide a unique transaction number for
accounting and transaction management.

The top two lines of the register screen are for display, which
show the information about the current transaction in large bold
text.  The entries in transaction and its message from POS
appear on these display.  The very top line is most frequently
used for description and key entering display, and the second
line is commonly used for calculated amount or total.  For text
message, both lines are used when necessary.

The lower left corner of the screen is the journal, an
electronic journal which is stored in the hard disk of the
computer.  All of the actions performed in the POS module are
recorded in the journal, including information about invalid and
successful logon attempts, X and Z reports, all individual
transactions, and the use of the Training mode.  The journal is
based on register, i.e. different registers store their own
journal in their own directory and may be scrolled and viewed in
their own register.

6.5 The four vertical columns are status indicators:
----------------------------------------------------

The first column:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The first (left) column displays tax information about items
sold.  There are five indicator lights, one for each of the four
taxes and one for non-taxable items.  When an item is sold, the
taxes applicable to the item (Tax1 or GST, Tax2 or PST, Tax3,
Tax4, or No Tax) appear on the according indicator.  The
database stores the tax information on each inventory item or
each open-department, as you have set.  The tax may be
overridden in POS transaction for special customers with tax
examption.

The second column:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The next column displays the price level that the customer is
charged (Price 1, Price 2, or Price 3).  VisualPOS always
charges the customer the special price (price 2) if he/she is
entitled to, and the indicator for price 2 appears when an item
is sold. When price 2 is not available for the customer, default
price 1 will  be used instead.

There are four indicators in the third column:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The QUANT indicator appears when [QTY] (Quantity ) is pressed.
This tells the operator that a sale of multiple units of an item
is in progress.  The indicator disappears when sale of the item
is completed.

The TRANS indicator appears while there is a current pending
transaction in process.

The VOID indicator flashes while an item is voided from a
transaction.

The RETURN indicator is displayed while the return of an item is
being processed.

There are five indicators in the last status column:

The INPUT indicator flashes when the system is waiting for input
from the operator to complete a sale.

The $EXCH indicator flashes while a currency conversion is being
processed.

The CUST# indicator flashes when POS is waiting for entry of a
customer # to begin a transaction.

The PACKAGE indicator flashes while a package sale is in
progress.

The LOG ON indicator remains lit as long as the clerk remains
logged on to Register mode.

The panel below is the column for status indicator for Gas Pump
-- Pump Status in short.  The pump number is counted from left
to right and from top to bottom.  When Pump control is disabled,
the panel will remain blank always.  When enabled, all status of
the available pumps will be active, showing pump number,
message, status, and amount if the pump is being used.  The
display attribute is also distinguishable especially with a
color monitor.

The panel below the Pump Status column displays information
about items as they are sold, the UPC#, the regular price
(Price1) and the UOH (Unit On Hand, in stock).

If it is a purchase transaction with customer number entered,
the next panel will show the customer number entered (at start
of a transaction), the Credit Terms, and the customer's last and
first name.

In the following descriptions of POS functions, the code name
for each function is shown as a key such as [HELP] or [AUTO].
Because the location of each function is up to the user of
VisualPOS, the default key assignments of these functions are
not presented here.  The codes are shown on the keys when the
various keyboards are displayed using the Keyboard menu options
in the Maintenance module.  A complete list of POS functions is
given in Appendix C.

6.6 Getting Help in POS
-----------------------
The help system operates a little differently in Register mode
of the POS module compared to the rest of VisualPOS (MNT
module), but is still accessed by pressing [HELP] ([F1] on the
default keyboard).  In POS, help is linked to the keys on the
keyboard.  It provides information about the functions assigned
to individual keys, and the procedures for executing those
functions.  For example, press [F1] to open the help system, and
then press [F2].  The help text explains the function that has
been assigned to [F2], and then describes the use of this
function.  Press [F1] again to leave the help system.

The help text for a key with a macro assignment consists only of
the fact that a macro has been assigned to the key.  The nature
of the macro is not available.  The same is true for a key
assigned an Open Item; the number of the Open Item is not
available by pressing [HELP].

6.7 How does the POS works
--------------------------

When very first time when you entering into the VisualPOS POS
module, you may immediately realized that it does not operate
like a computer at all, especially when you are experienced with
other POS or computer software. Because of the expectation, the
more knowledgeable and experienced you are (especially for those
very knowledgeable people who do not always need a manual to
figure a computer software out), the more confused you might
get.  The VisualPOS POS module is NOT designed to operate like
an ordinary computer software for starters!  It is instead like
a Electronic Cash Register (ECR) where the operating sequence
and keystrokes are reduced to minimum, to provide fast POS
transaction.  Keyboard does not work like 'ABCD' as an ordinary
keyboard, but is assigned/programmed as [AUTO PRICE], [CASH],
[RECEIVE ON ACCOUNT] POS functions. You may bypass the POS
module and directly run the MNT module (by typing MNT and
[ENTER] at DOS) to get to the keyboard setup section to overview
the current key assignment.  The VisualPOS key map can be
programmed whatever the way you want that is sensible and
convenient for you.  Special POS keyboard (that simulates
standard PC keyboard) is also fully supported.  With its
powerful macro capability, VisualPOS gives you unlimited choices
to optimize the keyboard assignment (reduce the number of
keystrokes required) for easier and faster retail transaction.

The second difference of this 'ECR'-like operating mode from
that of an ordinary software is the sequence.  Normally when
using a typical computer, you always select the function (e.g.
find and choose the menu choice, or move the cursor the proper
field) and then fill in the value.  Most of the VisualPOS POS
functions are operated in the reversed order just like an ECR.
For example when you are sell inventory item# 1000, type "1000"
and [AUTO] (not [AUTO], "1000" and [ENTER]).

This approach is proven to be the fastest and easiest protocol
for clerks to operate POS transaction, especially with a POS
keyboard.  As long as you set up the system efficiently (or by
service stuff or dealer.), the training that takes to achieve
optimal speed is just minutes.  Most clerks of our clients
hardly recognize the POS module as a computer but rather an easy
and fast register.  Therefore it is a powerful PC that has over
100 standard POS key functions with unlimited combinations.

6.8 Identifying Items Sold
--------------------------

There are several ways to identify the item numbers of units
being sold. In each case VisualPOS searches the inventory
database for information about the item:

Type the Item # and press [AUTO] (Auto Price).

Scan the bar code on item labels with a laser scanner.

Enter the UPC # manually. Type the UPC # and press [UPC]
(Universal Product Code).

Sell items using keys that have been assigned as open items (see
Open Items later in the chapter).

In the first three cases, if the item is not found in the
database you are prompted to enter an Open Item #.  Enter the
number and press [AMT] and then enter the price and press [AMT].
 Alternatively if you believe the number was entered
incorrectly, clear the entry by pressing [CLEAR] and re-enter
the Item # or UPC #.

To continue identifying items sold, each item is listed on the
journal, showing its Description from the inventory record, the
Item #, and the price charged.

6.9 POS Functions
-----------------

The following sections describe the POS functions assigned to
the keys on the keyboard.  The functions are arranged in
alphabetical order except where several similar functions form a
group, like the four functions for scrolling the journal which
are explained together.

6.9.1 Amount/Enter
------------------

[AMT] is pressed after entering a number following a POS prompt.
 For example, you are prompted to enter a department and price
for an item when it is not found in the inventory database,
[AMT] is pressed after each item has been typed.  [AMT] key is
also used for automatic credit card processing entering process.

6.9.2 Auto Price
----------------

[AUTO] is used to sell an item (Auto Price).  Type the Item #
and then press [AUTO].  If the item is not found clear the entry
by pressing [CLEAR] or enter the Open Item # and Price when
prompted, pressing [AMT] after each entry.

You may also use [AUTO] for auto pricing for returning a
merchandise. Enter the operator # and [RET], then the inventory
item number and [AUTO] like a normal selling process.  VisualPOS
will locate the inventory item and its price and perform  the
opposite of a selling process.

6.9.3 Backspace
---------------

Correct a typing error by pressing [BACKSPACE].  Pressing this
key removes the last key press.  The key can be pressed several
times, but [CLEAR] should be used to remove a series of
keystrokes.

6.9.4 Cash Sales
----------------

When all items have been sold and the customer is paying cash,
type the amount tendered and press [CASH].  If the customer
tenders the exact amount of cash simply press [CASH].  The
journal displays the subtotal, includes the applicable taxes,
calculates the total due, and shows the cash amount tendered and
any change due to the customer.  The transaction is complete and
the TRANS indicator disappears.  The receipt will be printed if
automatic receipt printing was set to Yes in the System
Configuration.

6.9.5 Change Price Level
------------------------

When multiple price levels have been entered in the Inventory
database, VisualPOS ensures that a customer is charged the
lowest price to which he/she is entitled.  However, situations
may arise when it is necessary to override the automatic price
level.  For example, stock of an item might run out before a
sale (Price 3) is scheduled to end, and so a "rain cheque" is
issued.  When the customer returns to purchase the item at the
sale price after the sale has ended, the automatic price levels
must be overridden in order to grant Price 3 instead of Price 1
or Price 2.

To change the price level, enter the number for the price level
to be charged and press [PRCE] before identifying the item.  The
price level charged is shown on the status indicator.

6.9.6 Charge Account Sales
--------------------------

Charge accounts with the store can be used only when a customer
number has been entered at the beginning of the transaction.  If
the customer chooses to charge the purchase to his/her store
account, press [CHRG] to complete the transaction.  Charge part
of the amount to the account by typing the amount and then
pressing [CHRG].  Press [SUBTOTAL] to display the remainder due
and tender all or part of that amount with other media until the
sale is completed.

If a customer's credit limit would be exceeded by charging the
purchase to his account, the customer record appears on the
journal showing the limit and current balance.  Press [SUBTOTAL]
to return to the transaction and accept a different payment
media or combination of media, or void the transaction.  The
credit limit can be changed only by editing the customer record
in the Data module.

6.9.7 Cheque Sales
------------------

Press [CHEQ] when the customer writes a cheque for the entire
amount of the purchase.  Type the amount of the cheque and press
[CHEQ] if the cheque is for an amount different from the total
sale.  Press [SUBTOTAL] to display the remainder due and tender
all or part of that amount with other media until the sale is
completed.

6.9.8 Clear
-----------

Press [CLEAR] to exit from an entire sequence of key presses.
For example, exit from the sequence required to tender a credit
card by pressing [CLEAR].  A sequence can not be cleared after
it has been completed.

6.9.9 Coupons
-------------

A vendor coupon does not reduce the amount of a transaction for
tax calculations because it amounts to a reduction of the
vendor's price to the retailer (the retailer is reimbursed for
the value of the coupon from the vendor).  Vendor coupons may
only be tendered after pressing [SUBTOTAL].  Type the amount of
the coupon and press [VCPN] to tender that amount.  Do not
confuse Vendor Coupons with Store Coupons issued by yourself.
Vendor Coupons is redeemable from the Vendor thus considered to
be a special payment (a kind of currency if you wish to put this
way).  Store Coupons is a kind of discount you issue to your
customers for promotion.

A store coupon reduces the amount of a transaction for tax
calculations, because it is in effect a reduction of the selling
price.  A store coupon can be tendered at any time during a
transaction.  Type the amount of the coupon and press [VCPN].
You are prompted for the Item # to which the coupon value is to
be charged.  If the coupon applies toward the last item sold,
simply press [AMT].  If the coupon applies toward another item,
type the Item # and then press [AMT].

6.9.10 Credit Card Sales
------------------------

If the customer chooses to pay with a credit card, first record
the card type by entering its code number and pressing [TYPE].
Next press [CARD] to complete the transaction and print the
receipt.

VisualPOS accepts combinations of payments modes.  For example,
if the customer wanted to pay by charge card and cash, identify
the card type and then enter the amount to be charged before
pressing [CARD]. Press [SUBTOTAL] to display the remaining
amount due.  Enter this amount or the amount tendered and press
[CASH] to complete the transaction.  More combinations of media
are allowed by VisualPOS.

To use the credit card authorization system, process the
transaction normally, tendering all media at the end of the
transaction.  When a balance owing of zero is reached, the
credit card window appears on the journal and you are prompted
to swipe the credit card through a magnetic card reader.  The
amount charged to the credit card is shown automatically.  You
also have the option of entering the account number and
expiration date manually by typing the numbers in the fields on
the journal window.  Press [AMT] after typing each number.

VisualPOS automatically connects with the authorization computer
network using the settings entered in the System Configuration,
and authorizes the card tendered.  An authorization number
appears in that field.  Don't be concerned with the code.  The
first line of the response box below the Authorization displays
a message in response to the authorization request. The most
common messages will be "Approved" and "Declined".  If the
authorization is declined the transaction must be voided by
pressing [VTRN].  Occasionally additional information may appear
on the second line of the response box.  The # of Debits and #
of Credits fields are explained in the section on Z Reports
later in this chapter.

Once authorized, a signature copy of the receipt is printed,
followed by a customer copy of the receipt if Print Second Copy
of Receipt was set to Yes in the System Configuration.

When a customer charges a purchase to more than one credit card,
the cards are authorized in the sequence of their code numbers
on the Currency/Credit Card form.  After the first card has been
authorized, you are prompted to swipe the second card.  Follow
the same sequence with each card until all have been authorized.
 If one card is declined the transaction must be voided. The
charges which have already been authorized before the
transaction is voided are automatically reversed.

When a customer charges a purchase to more than one card of the
same type (e.g. two VISA cards), the procedure is slightly
different.  The Amount displayed is the total amount charged to
all cards of one type.  If you have processed two or more
charges to the same account number, proceed as before.  However,
if the charges are to two different accounts for the same card
type, enter the amount charged to the card that was swiped in
the Amount field and press [AMT].  The authorization proceeds,
and when it is complete you are prompted to swipe another card
of this type.  The Amount now displays the remaining amount to
be charged to a card of this type.  Complete authorization of
this charge as before.

To process a credit towards a credit card, enter the amount to
be credited and press [CRED]. A credit may be processed for
transactions which are not registered in VisualPOS Jr. or to process
an adjustment for an overcharge which may result from keying
errors.

To process a debit towards a credit card, enter the amount to be
debited and press [DEBT]. A debit may be processed for
transactions which are not registered in VisualPOS Jr. or to process
an adjustment for an undercharge which may result from keying
errors.

Macros are useful for tendering credit cards, and macros for
each of the more common cards are included in VisualPOS.
Examine the macros using the Define Key Macros command in the
Maintenance Module to ensure that the code numbers for each card
are the same as the codes assigned to identify each card on the
Currency/Credit Cards form.  To use a credit card macro, simply
press the key to which the macro has been assigned to tender the
card for the entire amount of a purchase.  Type the amount
charged and press the macro key to tender the card in partial
payment of the purchase and then tender the remaining amount
with another media as described above.

Special Notes on automatic credit card processing with
VisualPOS: VisualPOS is programmed to use either 3201 or 3101
Credit Card processing protocol.  It is currently in testing in
Canadian banks but not yet officially released although the
processing and design are built in already.  It is scheduled to
be released in Canada after the Bank testing and approval.
Automatic credit card processing in U.S. may take longer.  It is
a good practice to dial and process the credit card transactions
using your credit card machine or phone before tender into
VisualPOS's transaction.

6.9.11 Currency Tenders and Conversions
---------------------------------------

A currency conversion table should have been set up in the
Maintenance module.  When a customer presents foreign cash as
payment, enter the code number for that currency stored in the
conversion table and press [CURR].  The $EXCH status indicator
light flashes.  The display shows the name of the foreign
currency and the total sale amount in converted funds.  Enter
the amount of foreign currency tendered and press either [CASH]
or [CHEQ].

The journal displays the completed transaction in the local
funds (Canadian dollar in Canada, U.S. dollar in States, etc.),
showing the local funds (e.g. Canadian dollar in Canada)
equivalent of the foreign currency tendered and the amount of
change due to the customer.  A message placed on the journal
shows the amount of foreign currency that was tendered.

VisualPOS accept foreign currency but only refund in the local
currency.  If you decide to accept foreign currency, make sure
that you set up the exchange rate properly.  And don't be
confused with the 'buying rate' and 'selling rate'.

Macros are useful for currency conversions, and a macro to
convert American dollars into Canadian dollars is included in
VisualPOS.  Examine the macros using the Define Key Macros
command in the Maintenance module and verify that the code
number for a currency in the macro is the same as its code
number stored in the Currency/Credit Card form.

To use a currency conversion macro, press the key to which it
was assigned to display the subtotal of the transaction in
foreign funds, and then enter the amount tendered in foreign
funds and press [CASH] or [CHEQ] to complete the transaction.

6.9.12 Customer #
-----------------

It is in the best interests of the customer to have a customer
number when making a purchase because it allows the customer to
receive the lowest price for which he/she is qualified.

A customer number is required to charge purchases to the
customer's account.  A customer number is also required if the
Customer # Required flag was set to Yes in the System
Configuration.  If you do set the flag to Yes it may be useful
to set up customer records to use for customers who have not
registered with the store.

All sales to customers without a customer number would be posted
to these customer records.  If you use different customer
numbers for varying types of customers (male, female, etc.), you
can still acquire useful demographic information about your
sales.

Type the customer's number and press [CUS#] to enter the number.
Customer information is completed in the Customer information
panel.  Entry of a Customer # must be the first action of a
transaction.  The number can not be entered after the
transaction has begun.

When a customer # has been entered, a window can be displayed by
pressing [CUS#] again at any time before the transaction is
completed.  The window shows some of the key fields from the
customer record.  The window closes when the next key is pressed
to continue the transaction.

6.9.13 Decimal
--------------

The decimal key is used to separate dollars from cents in an
amount.  The period key is equivalent to a decimal, but you may
wish to assign Decimal to a key on the number pad.  (The default
unshifted keyboard includes this key assignment.)

6.9.14 Deposits
---------------

The purchase of some items, notably soft drinks, requires
payment of a deposit.  VisualPOS handles these amounts
separately from the price of an item.  Enter the amount of a
deposit and press [DPST].  When a customer returns an item for
which a deposit was paid, enter the amount to be returned and
press [DRET].  There is no tax attached to the deposit amount.

6.9.15 Discounts
----------------

Discounts can be applied as percentages of a price or as fixed
dollar amounts.  The procedure is similar for both discount
types; only the function key pressed differs.  To apply a
percentage discount to a single item, sell it and then type the
percentage amount from zero to 100 without decimals and press
[%DIS].  The display, journal, and receipt show the percentage
and dollar amount of the discount.  The discount percentage is
applied to the price of items before tax, and tax is applied to
the discounted amount.

You may also apply a percentage discount to a group of items,
sell all the items in the group at the beginning of the
transaction, press [SUBTOTAL], and then enter the percentage and
press [%DIS].

Apply dollar discounts to purchases using the same steps, but
press [$DIS] after entering the dollar amount of the discount.
The discount amount is applied to the price of items before tax,
and tax is applied to the discounted amount.

VisualPOS does not allow compound  [%DIS] and [$DIS] discount on
the same item. Store coupons may be compounded. But you may use
[SUBTOTAL] and apply the additional [%DIS] or [$DIS].

Group discount amount (either $ or %) will be distributed to
each item based on the ratio of its selling price to the total
of the group.

6.9.16 Item Look Up
-------------------

The window can be displayed by typing an item number and
pressing [ILU]. The window shows some of the fields from the
inventory record.  The window can also be displayed by pressing
[ILU] after an item has been sold during a transaction.  The
window closes when you press another key to continue the
transaction.

6.9.17 Keylock
--------------

Pressing [KYLK] has the same effect as turning a key on a cash
register that changes the operational mode.  Press [KYLK] to
open the Selection menu which offers choices of VisualPOS
modules, X and Z Reports, and Training mode.  Type the number
for an option or highlight it and press [ENTER] to select the
option.  Choices from the Selection menu can not be made when a
transaction is in progress.  [KYLK] is also the route to exit or
enter the MNT module, and run Auto Batch if  set up to.

6.9.18 Auto Batch Execution
---------------------------

Auto Batch is a batch setup in the MNT module to have VisualPOS
run a third party program (DOS or WINDOWS) right in VisualPOS,
and return to VisualPOS after execution.  Select the auto batch
you want to execute and press [EXEC], and VisualPOS will shell
to DOS and execute the batch.  If an invalid batch number is
selected, VisualPOS will immediately return to VisualPOS.

6.9.19 Log On/Log Off
---------------------

[LOG] is pressed after typing the Logon # to begin a session
with VisualPOS.  [LOG] is also pressed to end the current
session with VisualPOS (the LOG ON indicator flashes).  The Log
On panel appears when [LOG] is pressed, allowing a different
operator to log on.  Operators can use this function to secure
the terminal.

[LOG] is assigned to [TAB] on the default unshifted keyboard.
You should leave the function on that key for POS because it is
on that key for the other modules and can not be changed for
them.

6.9.20 Macros
-------------

Several different macros have already been presented, and we
encourage you to use them.  It may take some time to feel
comfortable with macros, but if you experiment with those
included with VisualPOS you should soon be able to develop
macros of your own.

Define macros using the Define Key Macros command in the
Maintenance module, and assign them to keys on any of the
keyboards.  Execute the macro by pressing the key in POS to
which it was assigned.  You may find it helpful to keep a record
of your macros showing their intended functions and how to use
them.

6.9.21 No Sale
--------------

The cash drawer can be opened by pressing [NO$].  Pressing [NO$]
begins and ends a no-sale transaction, which is recorded on the
journal.

6.9.22 Open Department
----------------------

Other than Open Item # approach for Open Department Transaction,
VisualPOS also supports several independent POS department
functions. An Open Item is an inventory that is not been set up
in the database (therefore without unique description and
price).  Inventory items # 1-99 are reserved for these open
items for their basic setup and description.

Open Item is also referred to as Open Department, or
Sub-department in the VisualPOS system. They are the same (all
defined in the sub-department and set up in inventory item
#1-99), but rather described from different angles.  From the
inventory database point of view, Open Item # is used since
these inventories do not have the unique Item #s assigned in the
database but rather being categorized into different types
(1-99, or Sub-department).  From the management and reporting
point of view, the term 'Sub-Department' is used since all
inventories in VisualPOS are categorized into up to 99
types/groups.

For many small or grocery stores/shops, inventory control is not
managed by individual item at all but rather by types/groups.
These types of operation with no or very little physical
inventory setup, is referred to as Open Department management,
where most of the transactions are Open Item # transactions, and
are described as Open Department transactions in VisualPOS.
VisualPOS supports these types of Open Department
operations/stores perfectly well -- with Z Report, Tax Report,
Float Control and dedicated POS Open Item key functions.  Please
refer to Open Item # section.

Most of the Open Department POS transactions could be set using
Open Item # macro. The [DEPT], [TDEP] and [DTRN] function keys
are also designed to assist Open Department transactions.

[TDEP] is to toggle VisualPOS 'Automatic Department Processing'
ON or OFF.  When [TDEP] is pressed, it will toggle auto
department flag on or off (default is off when starting
VisualPOS POS module).  When 'Auto Dept' is ON, and a particular
item may not be found from the database, VisualPOS will
automatically pick the default department # (set in [DEPT]) as
the Open Item # instead of prompt for entering one.

[DEPT] is to set the default department number.  When [DEPT] is
pressed after a department number is entered, the default
department will be set into that number.  The default department
# will be used in conjunction with [TDEP]/[DTRN]/[AUTO] keys to
pick up open department transactions.

When [DTRN] key is pressed after entering the price, it will
automatically use the default department # and the entered price
to issue an open department transaction.  It may be a 'Sell',
'Return', or even 'Void Item' transaction.  Note that [DTRN]
will use the default department regardless of the status of the
'Auto Dept' flag.

6.9.23 Open Items
-----------------

Open Item is sometimes referred to as Open Department or
Sub-Department as introduced before.  It is managed in
department setup and X/Z Reporting.  Please refer to Open
Department for more discussion.  Open Items can be used in two
ways with VisualPOS.  In an item based system when an item is
not found in the Inventory database, the Open Item sequence of
prompts is started.  First you are prompted to enter the Open
Item #; type a number from 1 to 99 and press [AMT].  Remember
that the Open Item #'s are the same as the numbers of the
sub-departments.  Next type the price of the item and press
[AMT].  The name of the sub-department and its number appear on
the journal.  You can also press [CLEAR] to exit from the Open
Item prompts if an Item # was simply typed incorrectly.

In a system where items are not identified individually by
inventory records with Item #'s, Open Items are used in another
way.  A key can be assigned a specific Open Item # using the
Keyboard options in the Maintenance module.  To sell an item to
this Open Item (sub-department), type the price and press the
key that has been assigned that Open Item #. The name of the
sub-department and its number appear on the journal.  When you
are using many Open Items it is not practical to assign each one
to a different key.  A macro provides a solution.

The sequence of prompts entered when an Item # is not found in
the database can be used to set up a generic Open Item macro
(included with VisualPOS).  The macro consists of entry of an
invalid Item # followed by [AUTO], which brings the "Enter Open
Item #" prompt to the display.  Type the number of the Open Item
and press [AMT] and then enter the price and   press [AMT].  If
you want to use this macro, do not use Item # 99999 for a
regular inventory record.

6.9.24 Package Sales
--------------------

VisualPOS includes a facility to sell a group of items for a
package price.  Begin a package sale by pressing [PACK]; the
PACKAGE light comes on in the status indicator.  Sell the
individual items of the package normally by scanning or entering
Item #'s.  As the individual items are sold in the package, no
price appears on the journal.  Type the package price and press
[AMT] to close the package.  Proceed to payment methods in the
usual way.  To exit from the package function before completing
the package, type a zero and press [AMT].

The total price for a package is credited to the sales of each
item in the inventory records in proportion to each item's price
representation in the package.  For example, consider a
promotion in which a customer is offered a free tie (value $25)
with the purchase of two shirts (value $50 each), a value of
$125.  The package of three items is sold for $100.  Instead of
crediting sales of $100 to Shirts and $0 to Ties, VisualPOS
credits $80 to shirts (100/125 x $100) and $20 to ties (25/125 x
$100).  The resulting sales figures give a more realistic
impression of the actual sales by item.

6.9.25 Paid Out (Pay Bills From Cash, or Cashier Loan)
------------------------------------------------------

Bills may be paid out from the till's cash, but no other actions
are available with a paid-out transaction.  Enter the amount of
cash to be paid and press [PAID] to complete the transaction.
If no amount is entered when [PAID] key is pressed, VisualPOS
will prompt to enter the amount. The cash drawer opens and the
transaction is completed.   'Receive In' which is the
counter-transaction of 'Paid Out' initiates with a return
transaction before [PAID], and VisualPOS will adjust the amount
to its negative value to process. You could produce a quick
receipt for the bill by pressing [PRNT] (Print Receipt On
Demand) and having the payee sign it.

6.9.26 Price Override
---------------------

The price of an item may be changed for a number of reasons,
such as a mark-down due to damage, clearance, a special sale and
so on.  To override the price of an item in the inventory
database, identify the item and then press [POVR].  The INPUT
indicator flashes.  Type the price and press [AMT].  Sale of an
item with a price override creates a Variance entry on X and Z
reports.

6.9.27 Printing Receipts
------------------------

VisualPOS automatically prints a receipt for the customer when a
transaction is completed unless automatic printing was disabled
in the System Configuration.  If automatic printing was disabled
but a receipt is required, it can be printed by pressing [PRNT].
 This function works only until the next transaction is
completed.  Old receipts on the journal can be printed by
scrolling to the transaction with [PGUP] and [PGDN], and then
pressing [PRNT].

6.9.28 Quantity
---------------

The default quantity for the number of items sold is one.
Increase the quantity sold using [QTY].  Type the quantity
amount, press [QTY], and then identify the item in the normal
way.  The QUANT indicator light remains on until the item is
identified.  The quantity can be reset to one by pressing
[CLEAR] before the item is identified.  Fractional quantities
may be permitted depending on the settings in the System
Configuration, but care should be exercised to ensure that a
fraction is valid for the item selected.

6.9.29 Receipt Advance
----------------------

Advance the paper in the receipt printer one line by pressing
[RCPT].  The key can be pressed several times in succession to
advance the paper in the receipt printer.

6.9.30 Receiving Account Payments
---------------------------------

Operators can accept payments toward customer accounts.  No
other actions are possible with an account payment.  Type the
customer number and press [CUS#].  Press [RACC] and accept the
payment media tendered in the normal way.  If the customer pays
the account with more than one media (e.g., cash and cheque), a
separate transaction must be completed for each media.

6.9.31 Reference Entries
------------------------

A reference number such as a tax exemption number or credit card
number can be printed on a receipt.  Type the number to be
printed and press [REF].  The reference number can be placed
anywhere on the receipt after the first item has been sold.  A
sale can not begin with a reference number, but you can place a
reference number on a receipt after payment has been tendered.

6.9.32 Return Items
-------------------

Items that were purchased and returned are linked to the clerk
who originally sold the goods so that the manager can monitor
commission adjustments.  Type the number of the operator shown
on the receipt and press [RET].  The RETURN indicator flashes.
Type the number of the item to be returned, press [POVR] and
then type the amount for which the item was sold as shown on the
customer's receipt and press [AMT].  Repeat the process for each
returned item.  Tender media in the usual way to complete the
return transaction.  New goods can be sold in the same
transaction with returned items.  The net amount due or to be
refunded is calculated and displayed.

Items belonging to a package sale can be returned by a similar
procedure. Enter the Operator # from the customer's receipt and
press [RET] and then press [PCKG].  Both the RETURN and PACKAGE
indicators flash.  Identify the items belonging to the package
by scanning a label or entering UPC #'s or Item #'s.  Type the
package price and press [AMT] and tender media to complete the
return.

When returning items that were purchased using store coupons,
record the coupon as before by entering the coupon amount and
pressing [SCPN] and then enter the Item # at the prompt and
press [AMT].  The amount of the coupon is deducted from the
amount to be refunded to the customer.

A customer might return items that were paid for with more than
one media (credit card and cash).  When processing the refund,
process the return of cash as the last media.  This way if the
customer was to be refunded, for example $6.99, you could
receive $0.01 as cash tendered and give the customer $7.00.

When returning items purchased with a credit card, the
authorization interface is activated when the balance owing to
the customer reaches zero.  You are prompted to swipe the
card(s) just as if the customer was making a purchase.  Enter
the Authorization Code printed on the customer's receipt and
press [AMT]; the credit to the card can not be processed without
this code.  VisualPOS automatically connects with the
authorization computer network using the settings entered in the
System Configuration, and processes the credit to the account.

[AUTO PRICE], [$DIS], [%DIS] , and etc. keys also supports the
return transactions.  You may find it convenience to use the
[AUTO PRICE] return sequence instead of the formal [POVR]-[AMT]
process.  Type the operator number and press [RET] key first
(the RETURN indicator will show a return transaction for the
next item), and do the transaction as if you were selling this
item; VisualPOS will reversed the transaction sequence
internally including discounts.  Be very careful when group
discount (with [SUBTOTAL]) is applied in the same transaction
(return may be issued within any transaction, including Gas Pump
operation!), since VisualPOS will distribute the group discount
to every line items in the group.

The return process for Gas Pump transaction is a bit different
since VisualPOS has to inform the pump controller.  Because of
the nature of Gas Pump operation, you should never need to
handle Gas returns.   Gas returns must be processed within the
Pump transaction for proper Pump reports.  If the according pump
transaction is completed, you should do the return with the
inventory/department item# for that grade.

Pump return is normally used for mis-matched transactions.  In
such cases, return before or after the completion of the
transaction will not make a difference at both the Inventory and
Gas Pump level control and report.  But you should make sure to
enter the return, and necessary adjustment transaction manually
(instead of through the pump), and complete all transactions
that have occurred.

6.9.33 Scrolling Display
------------------------

The text in some fields (e.g., Customer Name) may not fit on the
display because of their length.  Press [SCRL] to scroll the
display and see more. This function will work only if no other
keys have been pressed after the function that put the
information on the display.

6.9.34 Scrolling Journal
------------------------

As a transaction proceeds and entries are recorded on the
journal, the entries made at the beginning of the transaction
are no longer visible on the journal.  Four functions allow you
to scroll the journal display. Press [LNUP] and [LNDN] to move
the journal backward or forward one line. Press [PGUP] and
[PGDN] to move the journal backward or forward one transaction.

An old receipt can be printed by pressing [PRNT] when the
transaction has been located on the journal.  If more than one
transaction appears on the journal, the transaction at the
bottom of the display is printed.  The entire journal recorded
since the last Z report can be printed.  Scroll to the top of
the journal and press [PRNT].  A dialogue box will ask if you
want to print the whole journal or only the currently displayed
receipt.

Press [CLEAR] to end scrolling of the journal and return to cash
register operation.

When you have scrolled to the top of the journal and press
[PGUP], you will be asked if you want to view the previous
journal.  If you select Yes, you will be able to scroll through
the transactions recorded before the last Z Report.  You can
continue viewing old journal files in this way until the last
journal file is encountered, or until the first journal file for
the current month is displayed.  You can not use [PGDN] to
scroll back down through journal files.  Press [CLEAR] to end
scrolling of the journal and return to cash register operation.

After a Z Report, the previous receipt journal will be renamed
to *.J?? where '*' is the data-shift stamp and '??' is the
register number.  And a new empty journal type is re-created for
the next Z Report period. When you attempt to scroll journal
immediately after the Z Report, the 'journal file empty' message
will show up.  Use [NO$] to write something on the journal if
you want to scroll through the previous one.

6.9.35 Subtotal
---------------

At any time you can display a subtotal for a transaction without
affecting the journal or receipt by pressing [SUB].  The
subtotal displayed includes all applicable taxes.  Press [SUB]
at the end of each series of sales to tell the customer the
amount owing.  You will use this key a lot.  The [SUB] key can
be used anywhere within a transaction, and may be used for group
discount.

6.9.36 Tax Override
-------------------

The tax applicable to purchases is automatically calculated and
applied by VisualPOS using the tax settings in the inventory and
customer databases and the tax tables.  It may be necessary to
override the tax function, for example in the case of a sale to
a tax-exempt customer.  This tax override can be avoided by
setting up customer records with appropriate tax flags.

Before selling an item for which the tax must be modified, type
the number of a tax (1 to 4) and press [TAX].  Repeat the
process for each tax that is to be charged.  One of the taxes
can be turned off again by typing its number and pressing [TAX].
 A tax override changes the tax status only for the sale of the
next item.

6.9.37 UPC
----------

[UPC] is used to sell an item by entering the Universal Product
Code if the code is not recognized by the scanner.  Type the UPC
number and then press [UPC].  If the item is not found clear the
entry by pressing [CLEAR] or enter the Open Item # and Price
when prompted.

6.9.38 Validating Documents
---------------------------

Some printers can validate documents such as cheques, receipts,
charge slips, etc. with the time, date, and total of the last
sale.  When a transaction has been completed, press [VAL].  When
the message Slip in and Clear appears, place the document to be
validated into the print mechanism and press [CLEAR].  Remove
the document and press [CLEAR] again when printing is complete.

6.9.39 Voiding Items
--------------------

The Void Item function is used to remove items sold from the
current transaction.  Press [VITM] to begin (the RETURN
indicator flashes) and then "sell" the items as before making
sure to include the same quantities.  VisualPOS searches for the
items on the journal, and removes those for which a match is
found.  A match will not be found if the    quantity sold
differs from the quantity voided.  Exit the void sequence by
pressing [CLEAR].  A quick void item procedure is to type a zero
and press [VITM].  This voids the last item sold.  You may wish
to set this key  sequence up as a macro.

6.9.40 Voiding Transactions
---------------------------

A transaction can be voided at any point prior to final
tendering of the transaction.  Press [VTRN] to cancel the
current transaction. The [VTRN] process will also resume the
Pump transaction  to previous status.

6.9.41 Weighing Items (Scale)
-----------------------------

Items to be weighed when they are sold are identified in the
inventory records by setting the Scale flag to Yes.  There are
three ways to process a weighable item:

Place the item on the scale and enter the Item # or UPC #,

Scan the bar code and place the item on the scale,

Enter the weight as a quantity if the weight is known and then
identify the item.

The weight in kilograms is multiplied by the price and both
appear on the receipt and journal.  Be sure to record prices in
kilograms in inventory records for items that are weighed, and
set the number of decimal places to three for Quantities in the
System Configuration.

Press [SCAL] to force weighing of an item, for example when the
item can not be found in the database or if the Scale flag was
not set to Yes in the inventory record.  Press [SCAL] and follow
the prompts on the display. If the Scale flag was accidentally
set to Yes in an inventory record so that you are prompted to
place the item on the scale when it is sold,  press [CLEAR] and
then sell the item using [QTY].

6.9.42 Zero & Double Zero (0 & 00)
----------------------------------

The usual zero key on the keyboard can be used to enter that
number, but [0] must be assigned to a key on the number pad in
order to use it there. [00] can also be assigned to a key which
will speed amount entries, especially if Decimal Required is set
to No in the System Configuration.

6.9.43 X Report
---------------

An X Report is a summary of all transactions processed since the
last Z Report was generated.  The summary registers are not
cleared to zero by an X report.  Open the Selection menu by
pressing [KYLK] and choose X Report. The display shows X-Report
and the journal records production of the report but does not
show the actual report, which is sent to the printer. Press
[KYLK] to open the Selection menu and make another choice.

The X report has the following sections:

At the top of the report, the calculation of net sales from
gross sales is shown.  The Variance entry results from use of
the Price Override function.

Sales in each tax class are shown, followed by the total amount
of each tax collected.

The number and amount of sales by each payment media are listed,
followed by the Drawer Total.

The number and amount of all transactions are listed.

The number and amount of sales in each sub-department are
listed, with the subtotal for each department.

6.9.44 Z Report
---------------

A Z Report is the same summary of transactions as an X Report,
except that all summary registers are reset to zero by
production of the report.  Open the Selection menu by pressing
[KYLK] and choose Z Report.  Confirm that the registers should
be reset to zero in the dialogue box that appears.  ZReport
appears on the display.  The report is sent to the printer and
also is recorded in the journal.  Up to 26 Z Reports can be
produced during one day.  If you produce more than this number,
the last report generated will be overwritten on the hard disk.

The Scroll functions can not be used to view the Z Report on the
journal until another transaction has been completed.  Press
[NO$] to complete a No Sale transaction, and then use the scroll
functions ([PGUP] etc.) described earlier.

If you decide not to clear the registers and produce a Z Report,
Aborted Z-Report is placed on the journal.  Press [KYLK] to open
the Selection menu and make another choice.

After a Z Report has been completed, you may see a message on
the screen telling you to backup journal files to diskettes.
This message appears when there are journal files on your hard
disk representing sales during more than one month.  You are
strongly encouraged to backup files  regularly.

If you are using the credit card authorization system, at the
end of each Z Report you are asked if you want to process the
End of Day Report for credit slips.  The End of Day Report can
be processed at the end of each shift, or at the end of the last
shift for the day.  If you process the report, the credit card
window appears showing the total number of debits  and credits
processed and the total amount for each.  Verify the number and
total of the charge slips in the cash drawer to these totals on
the  window.

If the VisualPOS-EXACT pump controller is active, Z Report will
print out all transaction summaries at pump and tank levels with
volume, sale and adjustment totals. An pump/tank adjustment form
with estimated pump/tank reading and sale totals will be shown.
You should read the pump and tank reading to complete the meter
adjustment.  VisualPOS will print the adjustment reading if
necessary.  You will also be prompted to print or zero the Up To
Date (UTD) total.  This total should be zeroed each time when
you do your tank adjustment and reset the EXACT controller.

If the VisualPOS-PIE pump controller is active, you will be
prompted to enter if you want to clear the End Of Day (EOD) pump
total.  It is suggested that you clear the EOD total at each End
Of Day (fixed time of the day).  Or you may zero this EOD pump
total at each End Of Shift if you wish.  You will also be
prompted to enter if you want to clear the Up To Day (UTD) total
after the EOD total zeroing process. This UTD accumulative may
be zeroed depending on your management method -- at the End Of
Week, End Of Month, and Tank fill-up being a few examples.  You
should keep the printed pump information on file because once
the total is zeroed, nowhere could you be able to retrieve this
information other than from the Receipt Journal tape.

After the pump transaction/adjustment zeroing process, VisualPOS
will prompt you to perform pump reading process.  Please do not
confuse the transaction/adjustment total with this pump reading
total.  The transaction /adjustment total is the
transactions/adjustments reported by the POS register, while the
pump reading total is the actual physical pump reading. If you
have multi-register pump control system, the
transaction/adjustment totals are reported for each register
independently, and should be added together for gross fuel
transaction report. The pump reading total is directly read from
the pump which is independent of either of your registers.

After the pump reading process, you should check and record your
tank monitor result (or perform dig measuring), and consolidate
the result with the printed reports. Please refer to the pump
control section for more information and discussion about end of
day re-consolidation at grade and tank level.

6.9.45 Training Mode
--------------------

Training mode allows your operators to become familiar with the
use of VisualPOS on a "live" system.  While in Training mode
operators can perform all of the normal operations of the POS
module, including X and Z reports, but none of the transactions
are posted to inventory, customer, or operator records; nor to
your actual X and Z retail report.  The training mode is an
emulator of the cash register system.

If you are not already logged on to VisualPOS log on by entering
your Log On #, or choose POS Register Mode from the Module menu
if you are logged on but in another module.  Press [KYLK] to
open the Selection menu and choose Training mode.  Messages are
inserted in the journal recording the beginning and end of
training mode, and the Mode Indicator flashes Training while
this mode is active.  POS operates as if it were live when in
Training mode, and all of the foregoing description of POS
operations apply.  To exit Training mode, open the Selection
menu by pressing [KYLK] and choose Training mode.  POS returns
to the active Register mode.

Because of the nature of Pump control where despensing and
transaction could not be emulated by the pump itself, the
training mode will not work properly with the pump control.
That is, all transactions of the real pumps are real. We suggest
you not to practice pump control in the training mode, unless
you have to, in that case, make sure to turn back to regular
(REG) mode and run the Z Report for a proper adjustment after
the training section.


                     CHAPTER 7  EXACT pump control
                     =============================
This chapter is striped out on this disk Menual to save space.


                    CHAPTER 8  PIE pump controller
                    ==============================
This chapter is striped out on this disk Menual to save space.

                CHAPTER 9  Gas Pump Setup and Report
                ====================================
This chapter is striped out on this disk Menual to save space.

                 CHAPTER 10  Extended POS functions
                 ==================================
This section is striped out on this disk Menual to save space.


             CHAPTER 11 UTILITIES and General Maintenance
             ============================================

11.1 Introduction
-----------------

After you have operated VisualPOS for some time, it is necessary
to perform some maintenance operations.  One important operation
is backing up files to diskettes to secure information entered
by operators, and information collected during operating the POS
module.  We suggest that you do backup frequently, by week or by
month. If you have an multi-register network system, you may
also backup your Master (server) files to one of the stations
(Sub-Master for example) to provide security against hard disk
or system failure of the server.

VisualPOS network which offers the ability to handle multiple
registers is now available.  This system includes a facility to
consolidate information from all of the registers into a single
transaction database.  The drivers and procedures for various
accounting packages are also being developed and will be
available in the upgrade to VisualPOS. Contact WIZ-TEC Computing
Technologies Inc. for more information.

At the end of the accounting periods, the cumulative totals that
VisualPOS keep track of must be reset to zero to maintain proper
records.  All of these functions are performed using menus in
the Maintenance module.

11.2 Backup and Restore
-----------------------

You may backup your system using simple DOS backup, or copying
to any third party special backup programs or tape units. The
sole purpose of backup is to duplicate the system/data
physically outside the hard disk to prevent and protect your
computer from system/hard disk failure.  Backup should be done
periodically depending on the system transaction traffic and
database uses.  We suggest you to backup your system at least
every week or month.  All the files except '*.EXE' and '*.VVD'
(VisualPOS programs) in VisualPOS directory should be included
for backup.  If you have a multi-register network POS system
installed, it is also a good practice to backup your server to
one of the workstation so that when the server (master register)
is down (system/hard drive/network failure), you can retrieve
your retail operation immediately by assigning another
workstation as the server, or resetting the workstation to be a
stand-alone register.  System or hard disk failure may never
happen, but you also can not afford if it did.

In addition, you should perform the backup procedure every time
you are going to: (1) Zero Totals (2) Delete files (3) Major
database or setup changes (e.g. importing database to the
system).

Most of the files in the VisualPOS directory are data files
required for its proper operation, thus should be considered to
be included for backup.

11.3 Deleting files
-------------------

VisualPOS build its Receipt Journals and Z Reports continually
in the POS module (and also the transaction/sale files if you
enable that option in the system setup form).    These files
keeps growing and will take a fair amount of space in your hard
disk.  The Receipt Journals (named as *.J?? or JOURNAL.HC$ where
* is the date of the Receipt Journal and ?? is a two digit
register number) are the one you should check at least every few
month.  The Journals are considered to be the most significant
files.  Backup and file them in a safe place for your later
transaction audit, and delete them from the hard disk to clean
up disk space when necessary.

You should not delete the Z Report files unless you are doing a
year end and have finished and filed all reporting print-outs
(Tax and Z Report in the MNT module reporting menu).  Make sure
to back them up and delete them to end of the day/shift (date
and shift are stamped as the file name).

The transaction/Sale files are usually used for third party
accounting or database importing/exporting.  They are ASCII
files and are always written to the server's (Master's)
VisualPOS directory.  The file SALES.R?? (?? stands for register
number) is line item transaction detailed file (record/line
based, typically used for transaction history auditing and
analysing, and very detailed accounting exporting), and the
SALES.X?? is the transaction summary based media/tender detailed
file (record/line or script based, typically used for accounting
hook/porting). Other than for accounting/ database information
exchanges, they are also very compact transaction audit files
than the Receipt Journals.  If you are not using these files for
your transaction exporting/importing/auditing, you should
disable POS from generating these files (in system configuration
setup form).  Otherwise, deleting these files is totally
dependent on the purpose and usage of these files.

11.4 Zero Totals
----------------

VisualPOS POS module automatically build its files in several
major areas: (1) The Receipt Journals, audit always in POS;  (2)
the X and Z Report files each time running the End Of Day or End
Of Shift report; (3) Inventory/Customer/Operator database
updating for Daily/MonthToDate (MTD)/ YearToDate (YTD) on
department;  (4) Gas pump transactions, totals and status on
network.

Monthly and annual sales of inventory, sales amounts made by
operators, values of purchases from vendors, and amounts
purchased by customers are cleared from VisualPOS's totals using
the Zero Totals utility menu.  The Adjustment Journal is also
managed from this menu.

Month-to-date (MTD) totals should be zeroed at the close of the
last business day of each month.  Totals could be cleared more
often (weekly) or less often (quarterly) if either choice is
more appropriate for your store.  All of the cumulative totals
for the last month will be cleared, so it is important to
produce any monthly reports before this option is chosen.
Zeroing of the year-to-date (YTD) totals should be performed
only at the end of the business year.

Select one of the zeroing options by pressing [ENTER] when the
option is highlighted.  Confirm that you wish to clear the
totals in the dialogue box that appears.  If you set Require
Backup to Yes in the System Configuration, VisualPOS will not
proceed with zeroing until a backup has been performed.  We
strongly recommend that you perform a backup before zeroing
totals.

When totals for one set of records have been zeroed you can
select other totals to be zeroed, or press [ESCAPE] until the
Maintenance module menu titles reappear.

11.5 Adjustment Journal
-----------------------

An adjustment journal is created when the number of inventory
Units On Hand and/or Units On Order is changed using the Adjust
command on the Inventory menu in the Data module.  The journal
can be viewed, printed, or deleted by selecting those commands
from the Inventory sub-menu of Zero Totals.

A maximum of 3000 entries can be stored in the Adjustment
Journal, and VisualPOS will provide a warning message if this
limit is approached.  To prevent having to print very long
reports, the journal should be printed and deleted regularly.

When you delete the Adjustment Journal, a copy of the journal is
stored to your VisualPOS directory under the name ADJUST.BAK.
This backup copy of the journal is overwritten the next time
that you delete the Adjustment Journal.  These files should be
stored on diskettes to maintain an audit trail of changes to the
inventory.


            chapter 12 Database Custom Reporting
            ====================================
This chapter is striped out on this disk Menual to save space.

                  CHAPTER 13 Printing Labels
                  ==========================
This chapter is striped out on this disk Menual to save space.



                 CHAPTER 14  Advanced Topics
                 ===========================

This Chapter describes some advanced topics and utilities
provided, including rebuilding indexes, repairing database,
programming the invoice script, power reporting and exporting,
and etc.  If you are not an expert in computer and programming,
you may want to skip this Chapter.

14.1 Rebuilding Indexes with REBUILD.EXE
----------------------------------------

Indexes are files that organize the databases.  It may be
necessary to rebuild indexes after a system failure such as a
power interruption.  At these times the files of VisualPOS that
are open may become corrupted because they are not closed in the
orderly manner of formally exiting the program.  If the files
are corrupted you will receive an "ISAM" error message the next
time that you start VisualPOS.  This message indicates that
rebuilding of indexes is required.  Rebuilding is not as
destructive as initializing, but it can be time consuming.

Start the Installation module by typing INS and pressing [ENTER]
when you are in the DOS directory containing VisualPOS.  Log on
using the Master Logon code, and press [ENTER] twice to pass
through the Source and Destination prompts.  The menu titles of
the Installation module appear.

Rebuild one of the indexes by choosing the index from the menu
and pressing [ENTER] or type the highlighted letter.  Rebuild
all indexes by choosing that option.  Confirm that an index is
to be rebuilt in the dialogue box that appears.  Next you are
prompted for a Yes/No response to force rebuilding of one or all
indexes.  It usually is not necessary to force rebuilding; the
system examines the indexes and rebuilds only those that require
it.  However, there may be times when the problem in an index
can not be detected, and the ISAM error will re-occur even after
rebuilding.  If this should happen, force the rebuilding of
indexes by selecting Yes at the prompt.  When rebuilding is
completed press any key to return to the menu titles.

14.2 VisualPOS Programmable Invoicing script file
-------------------------------------------------
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14.3 Importing Inventory/Customer with VPIMPORT.EXE
---------------------------------------------------
This section is striped out on this disk Menual to save space.

14.4 Resetting Single User mode with VPRESET.EXE
------------------------------------------------

VPRESET is to set VisualPOS back to single user mode. In the
multi register network environment, when there is a
network/system failure or lock up, VisualPOS will not run and
will post the 'ISAM ERROR' message. Resetting it will turn
VisualPOS into the single user mode.  It is used to for system
diagnosis, debugging and temporary recovery.  Run VPRESET with
'S' (must be upper case) parameter (command line "vpreset S" and
[ENTER]) to reset the current VisualPOS into single user mode.
You must run VPRESET under the current VisualPOS directory.  It
is used for the current VisualPOS register only.  Please refer
to the discussion on Network topics for more information.

14.5 Check and fix database number with VPCHECK.EXE
---------------------------------------------------

VPCHECK is used to scan and fix VisualPOS database for floating
point number rounding. VisualPOS saves its numbers in binary
floating point format. VisualPOS report will not be able to
handle only the significant floating point numbers without
proper rounding, and will show error 343 message when reporting.
You should run VPCHECK only when VisualPOS custom reporting
detects the significant floating point rounding numbers. To run
VPCHECK, at DOS command line, type "vpcheck" with the according
database parameter -'I' for inventory, 'C' for customer, 'V' for
vendor and 'O' for operator.

14.6 Check and repair database with VPREPAIR.EXE
------------------------------------------------

VPREPAIR is an utility to scan and fix VisualPOS database
including floating point numbers, Boolean values, index key
values etc. You should backup your database before preceding
with VPREPAIR. It is also suggested that you run REBUILD program
first before and after the VPREPAIR if your repair is going to
deal with index key field values in the database.

14.7 Exporting database to ASCII with VPREPORT.EXE
--------------------------------------------------

VPREPORT is VisualPOS's report engine. Each time when you run
VisualPOS custom report, VisualPOS will first compile the report
to a report script file named "RTSCRIPT.SCP", then invoke
VisualPOS report engine for database reporting. VPREPORT uses
the script file (RTSCRIPT.SCP by default) to generated the
database report to the file "RTREE.OUT" using RTREE Report
Generator (FairCom). It requires advanced programming skill to
write the script file. You must have some knowledge and skill of
writing RTREE script files.  With VPREPORT, it will give you the
unlimited reporting power for relational reporting, database
ASCII exporting, and  etc.  The easiest way to write the script
file is to have VisualPOS generate a report first with the
according script file in "RTSCRIPT.SCP".  Rename the file to a
different name to prevent it from being overwritten by next
VisualPOS report, and change the script file to your report
needs.  You may also use third party report generator to
generate VisualPOS database reports.

VPREPORT may also be used for reports outside the VisualPOS
environment.  When you are generating a very huge report, it
will run slowly and sometimes out of memory. VPREPORT runs much
faster with more than 400K free RAM.  For frequently used
report, you may incorporate it with VisualPOS's Auto Batch
function.

14.8 Setting up Network
-----------------------

A network (Local Area Network, or LAN) is to provide resources
and device sharing among a group of PCs (workstations). Network
drivers, sometimes called Network Operation System, is the
software to provide and control the resource sharing.  VisualPOS
uses the disk sharing capability file/record locking/sharing for
its databases. Only the databases (inventry.dat, customer.dat,
vendor.dat, operator.dat and their associate indexes) are shared
among network for VisualPOS. Each individual VisualPOS station
is separate and independent.

To set the VisualPOS network server (Master), First, you need to
create a disk resource (a directory or a complete drive) for the
clients (Slaves) for disk sharing.  For VisualPOS, this disk
resource is the Master's VisualPOS directory. Second, you need
to set up the 'Accounts' for each client workstations (Slaves)
to login and share the disk resources, or Master's databases for
VisualPOS.  The account name for each client are different for
their network logins.  When you set the VisualPOS network
clients (Slaves), you will login the station to the server by
its dedicated account name set by the server; and redirect the
resource provided by the server to the logical device of your
station.

Here is a brief example:  Suppose you have 5 PCs to be networked
into 5 VisualPOS registers.  PC# 1 will be set as the Master
(server) used both as a POS register, and a back end management
system.  PC# 2-4 will be set as VisualPOS registers -- Slaves
(client stations).  Five individual copies of VisualPOS are
installed in each of the 5 PCs all under "C:\VP" directory of
their local hard drive.  When setting up the Master, you first
create a disk resource named "VPMASTER" from the server hard
drive "C:\VP" directory, and dedicate it to database sharing
with the Slaves.  Then you may set up 5 accounts named "VP1" to
"VP5" for each of the workstations to login the server for
VisualPOS database sharing.  Make sure the access ability to be
'ALL' (read and write).  You may set up password security as you
wish but not necessary.  At each Slave, you set up the login to
the server with (1) the account name of "VP?" where '?' is the
number of the PC you are working on, (2) redirect this server's
disk resource (VisualPOS directory) under the drive name 'Z'
(drive letter may be A-Z, but you may not have the disk drive
under the same letter installed or redirect from other disk
resource) as a new logical disk.  Now you may connect all PCs
together with the above configuration and let them running under
DOS first before running VisualPOS into network. Also make sure
to install DOS 'SHARE.EXE' if your network driver does not do it
for you automatically. Under the above configuration, if the
network is set up and connected, and all PCs are logged in to
the server properly, you should be able to 'DIR' the 'Z' drive
at each station (make sure the logical disk drive is available
and apropriate).

Now you can run VisualPOS to set them to network in system
configuration setup screen in the MNT module.  At the Master
(PC# 1), set the Register Type to be "NETWORK MASTER" with both
the Master Path and Sub-Master Path blank.  Press [F10] to
confirm and save.  At the Salves (PC # 2-5), set the Register
Type to be "NETWORK SLAVE" with Sub-Master Path blank; and the
Master Path to be 'Z' (in the driver letter field, leave the
rest of the directory field blank).  Press[F10] to confirm and
save.  If VisualPOS is not configured correct, "ISAM ERROR"
message will be posted, and the program will be aborted.  For
unsuccessful setups, you must run VPRESET program to reset it
back to single user mode before running the VisualPOS again.

Note: in the above example you should (1) set the "LASTDRIVE" to
'Z', (2) extend your 'FILES' and 'BUFFERS' in your 'CONFIG.SYS'
file depending on the setup of your other resources, e.g. set
"FILES=100" and "BUFFERS=100".

You should put the setup into your "AUTOEXEC.BAT" file to have
it running automatically.

The difference between the single user mode and the network mode
is the databases sharing, and database sharing only.  Anything
other than the databases is independent at each register and may
be used locally as if running in the single user mode.  This
means that the individual register has its only setup (key,
macro, receipt message, ...), and generates its own files at the
local VisualPOS directory.  But, this might not be true for your
updated version of VisualPOS (please check the README.DOC for
new updates).

VisualPOS supports up to 26 registers on a single network.  More
than 75% of the VisualPOS users are network users, most of them
running 2-8 registers.  You may consider to set one PC as the
dedicated server if you have more than 5-8 registers, and should
contact us for the Server Edition of VisualPOS for more than 26
registers.  Server Edition VisualPOS is a special edition that
is designed to support up to 99 registers with dedicated server
and diskless client approach.

You should also consider setting up your network register system
with redundancy backup in mind.  In the VisualPOS system
configuration form, a special client register as "Sub-Master" is
listed.  VisualPOS does not do anything with it and treat it
exactly the same as the client (Slave).  It is introduced to
help our customer to recognize it as the backup server in case
of emergency or server failure.  As part of your store
management on the network, you should always backup everything
in the server to this Sub-Master periodically.  It is a good
practice to assure safty, although might never be needed.

To run VisualPOS under network, multi copies of VisualPOS
licenses or site license must be purchased. You may NOT install
or run the same VisualPOS on more than one PCs or PC terminals
or Network stations under the software license  agreement.


                  CHAPTER 15  Putting it all together
                  ===================================

This Chapter will help you on many topics that might be very
important to you.  We suggest that you read and understand these
topics completely before actually running the retail operation.
Some of our comments on these topics may not suit your
particular case because of the specialty in your retail
operation.  You should use these messages for your particular
needs and plans.

15.1 Making Decisions
---------------------

After reading through the Manual, and having some taste and
experience with VisualPOS, the next step is to decide how are
you going to set up VisualPOS at your store.  VisualPOS is a
very powerful POS and inventory control system.  You do not need
to use all its features for your store operation, especially at
the beginning.  Targeting your needs, planning your structure
and steps, and making the best decision for your store.

15.1.1 How many VisualPOS registers
-----------------------------------

For a small to medium size store, it is sometimes hard to make
decision on how many VisualPOS registers should be installed.
Networked multi-register system is wonderful for retail store
automation, but it does take a little extra maintenance and
cost.  If one register is able to handle all the jobs for a
small store, you should consider to install one VisualPOS at
least initially.

You may consider to install multi-register VisualPOS network
system if (1) it is a fully inventory based (non open department
register type) retail store; (2) there is a fair amount of
inventory management at the store level, especially combined
with extended store open hours; (3) you have your customer
database and support; (4) more than one clerks on one shift; (5)
one register is too busy some days of the week.  You do not have
to set up all VisualPOS to be cashier registers. You may
consider leaving one extra VisualPOS in the back room of your
store dedicated to management and control.  Building up a
network multi-register system will also help to build a good
image and a more efficient operation.  If you have more than two
registers in the store, you should set one of the Slave register
as the backup server (Sub-Master) to which sever documents are
backed up regularly .

15.1.2 Open department register or full inventory management
------------------------------------------------------------

Open department register retail system is a kind of retail store
automation where inventory control are carried out at group
(sub-department) level.  A full inventory management system
operates inventory control at individual item level.  A retail
store may have both types of operations where some of the
inventories are controlled as open department items and some are
as item based inventory.  Full inventory management at
individual item level takes more efforts than an open department
control.  For medium to large stores, or chained (or franchised)
stores, full inventory control are definitely needed.  For a
small one store operation with 1-2 VisualPOS registers, it is
sometimes hard to make the decision.

It is very important to make the right choices to ensure a more
convienent and efficient operation.  You should consider to use
item based inventory control system (or partially on certain
types of inventories) if (1) your store carries hundreds of
inventory items; (2) you are a chained or franchised store where
part of the inventories are controlled by the head office; (3)
you will use laser scanner to carry your inventory transaction;
(4) you need to control some inventories closely based on
transaction feedback; (5) you need to plan certain inventories
that take time to order; (6) the inventory items are
considerably valuable and costly (may be above $5-$10 depending
on your consideration).  Item based inventory control takes more
time and effort but also gives you better feedback and control.

You should consider the open department based inventory control
(may be partially or temporarily on some inventories) if (1)
grocery type of inventory, e.g. food, drink, coffee, snakes.
This type of inventory has a faster float and may not be easily
controlled or planned, but rather depends on the flow of
customers; (2) it is the first time of your retail automation
and you are very short on stuff that is knowledgeable on
inventory control; (3) you are a service type of business where
many inventories are 'logical' items without fixed price.

How and at what level to manage your inventory is your to make.
There is no particular rules.  The street fashion is to have
full blown inventory control.  The open department level
inventory control does give you the benefit of easy management,
especially if you are not a computer expert and are not
experienced with VisualPOS.  You should make the decision for
your particular needs and benefits.  After all, you may
partially or gradually change your inventory control style and
level at any time.

15.1.3 POS devices
------------------

The most frequently used device for a retail store is the POS
keyboard. PREH84 keyboard is one of our customers' favourite
though it is a little costly.  There are many other programmable
POS keyboards in the market.  VisualPOS supports all of those
that are compatible with standard PC keyboard.  From the concern
of your clerks/cashiers, a POS keyboard will make operating the
transactions much easier.  If you do not prefer a POS keyboard,
you may put small labels on the standard PC keyboard to remind
you of the POS functions.

The 40 column receipt printer is another most popular POS
device.  If your retail store provides the customers with
receipts (always or on demand), you should have one installed.
It may also be installed and shared on a network although we do
not suggest so.

Report printer may be used for custom database reporting, POS
invoicing, and UPC barcode label printing.  If you carry these
typies of tasks, you may need to install one. It can be shared
across the network.

Laser scanner is very convenient and fast device for item based
inventory transactions in POS.  It eases the job of a cashier
and prevents typing mistakes in entering item #.

Electronic scale, Magnetic Strip Card Reader, Customer Display
unit (please check for new updates of VisualPOS) may also be
used by your need and choice.

15.1.4 Inventory labelling
--------------------------

If you manage your store with item based inventory control, and
some inventories do not have labels from their manufactures, you
may consider to use VisualPOS to print the labels for you.  You
may either print the labels with UPC barcode for laser scanning
or print with item #.

15.1.5 Organizing your department
---------------------------------

Among all VisualPOS setups, organizing the department is one
special issue that may need extra planning.  It is the base that
your inventory control relies on.  Before you set up your
inventory database, plan and structure the sub-departments.
After set up the department, make sure to check the open items
in the inventory database (1-99) for proper updates on
description and tax status.

15.1.6 Step by step
-------------------

When you are setting up your retail automation, you should plan
it and do it step by step especially if you are inexperienced
with PCs and computerized retail store management, or you are a
store with limited resources.  For a complex system with
multi-registers and full item based inventory control, you need
to have enough experts and stuff to work on it.

The very first thing is to make decisions as described in the
above section.  Then plan your steps.  Install one computer
under single user mode first and set it up with the database and
all proper configurations before going "on-live", and test/train
your clerk with the system.  The setup includes three areas --
the system setup as described in Chapter 3, the POS setup as
described in Chapter 4, and the database setup including
operator, customer and inventory.  You do not have to set up all
your databases to go "on-live" but rather do it in a stepwise
manner -- from open department to item based inventory.

You may ask your service company or retail dealers for help, but
make sure they are knowledgeable and qualified for the task.
You may also call WIZ-TEC or its authorized dealers for
questions, suggestions and help.

15.2 Getting support and service
--------------------------------

To build and operate a reliable and efficient computerized
retail automation system, besides proper operating procedures
and  management, you also need to have experts to be your backup
team for support and service.  Purchase hardwares from reliable
sources with good reputations.

WIZ-TEC provides a 30 day free software support after the
purchasing of VisualPOS Jr. or VisualPOS.  You should consider to
sign a software support contract with WIZ-TEC after the initial
30 day free support, at least for the first year of your
operation with VisualPOS.  The software support fee is $50 per
register per year, or $80 for up to 5 registers per year, or
$120 for unlimited registers per year.  Included in the
VisualPOS software support program, you will receive:

(1) free unlimited telephone software support at first priority

(2) free copies of WizLINK+ (retail value of $89/each)

(3) free upgrades on new releases of VisualPOS

(4) best support from the experts who developed VisualPOS

WIZ-TEC charges the software support program on a cost base.  A
few local WIZ-TEC authorized dealers may carry the support
program to which WIZ-TEC will forward your support fee, but the
support contract MUST be singed and paid to WIZ-TEC directly.

If you are not on the software support program, the support
charge is on hourly basis prepaid, and is secondary if a
customer on support requests at the same time.

You do not need to be on the software support program if

(1) you are a computer expert with certain degree of
programming/ database/networking and retail automation skills,

(2) well experienced with VisualPOS for more than 1 year,

(3) do not consider to receive the benefits the support program
offer.

We strongly suggest that you should be on the support program if

(1) it is the first time you are in the computerized POS
operation,

(2) it is the first year you are using VisualPOS,

(3) you have a networked multi-register POS environment with
considerable transaction float.

WIZ-TEC carries continuous product development and enhancement,
and releases new features and upgrades no more than every 6-12
month.  The new version upgrade is $249/each for VisualPOS and
$495/each for VisualPOS.

WIZ-TEC also carries some software services on hourly basis
prepaid.  The services include:

(1) customizing the programmable invoicing

(2) programming the POS keyboard

(3) programming the script for power reporting or exporting

(4) some custom programming that WIZ-TEC considers to be
beneficial to VisualPOS products.

WizLINK+ is a remote control software and is internally used to
provide software support to our customers.  The customers that
are on VisualPOS software support contract will receive free
copies of WizLINK+.   You may purchase WizLINK+ separately from
WIZ-TEC or qualified WIZ-TEC dealers at $89/copy or $119/two
copies.

WizLINK+ is a software product developed and commercially
marketed by WIZ-TEC.  It allows you to control and run another
computer anywhere through a modem-telephone line.  It is a
remote control software with only 8K of TSR memory and full
remote computing power including graphics support, high speed
compressed file transfer, WizMAIL electronic mail, and much
more.

With WizLINK+, we can support our customers like you much better
by directly calling and running your computer/register from our
office.  In this way, we ensure timely and efficient service
through on-line diagnosis, assistance, and problem solving.  You
may also use it to run, monitor, or manage your store
registers/computers and transfer files from your office or home.
The current WizLINK+ version is 2.0.

Please note that, VisualPOS requires 512K of free RAM memory ,
and like many other large programs, may not be able to run other
remote control software which take at least 50-80K of memory.
Here again, WizLINK+ provides the solution.

You may also, as a medium size store or a store with networked
multi-register system, consider to assign and get some service
locally.  A good service company can help you to maintain and
serve your complete retail system to perform its best.  You may
either get service on a contract base or get service when need.
A knowledgeable computer expert on stuff is anothe way to help
you to serve and maintain your store retail system the best.

15.3 Sample procedures and topics
---------------------------------

Following are some sample procedures and additional topics to
help you manage your retail operation.  It may not suit
everybody and is not complete by any means. You may compile and
standardize the operation and maintenance procedures for your
needs and assign your stuff to carry them.

15.3.1 Begin Of Shift -- Cashier
--------------------------------

You do not need to perform the Begin Of Shift procedure if you
do not manage your store at each shift level.  The Begin Of
Shift procedure should be carried in conjunction with the End Of
Shift Procedure.

(1) Count the amount of each type of medium in the cash drawer
(consolidating with the previous shift) and record it on the
back of the printed Z Report of the previous shift, and sign.

15.3.2 End Of Shift -- Cashier
------------------------------

You do not need to perform the End Of Shift procedure if you do
not manage your store at each shift level.

(1) Run Z Report from POS.

(2) Count the amount of each type of medium in the cash drawer,
and record it on the back of this printed Z Report.

(3) Count the amount of each type of medium that will be left in
the cash drawer for the next shift, and record it on the back of
the printed Z Report.

(4) Sign on the back of the Z Report.

(5) Have the next shift sign for the amount left for the Begin
of shift.

(6) Complete (VisualPOS) the float control and media adjustment
procedures, and record the adjustment comment on the back of the
report.

(7) Take the money/media to the bank for deposit and retain the
deposit slip to the store or the back office along with the End
Of Shift Z Report.

15.3.3 Begin Of Day -- Cashier
------------------------------

(1) Count and write the amount of  each type of meduma type
(cash and foreign currency) to start with for the business day.

15.3.4 End Of Day -- Cashier or Store Manager
---------------------------------------------

(1) Run Z Report from POS.

(2) Count the amount of each type of medium in the cash drawer,
and record it on the back of this printed Z Report.

(3) Count the amount (cash and foreign currency) that will be
left to the first shift of the next business day, and record it
on the back of the printed Z Report.

(4) Sign on the back of the Z Report.

(5) Give the amount/media to the first shift of the next day,
and have the clerk sign for the amount.

(6) Complete (VisualPOS) float control and media adjustment
procedure, and record the adjustment comment on the back of the
report.

(7) Take the money/media to the bank for deposit and retain the
deposit slip to the store or the back office along with the End
Of Day Z Report.

15.3.5 End Of Day -- Store Manager or Owner
-------------------------------------------

(1) Process each medium (End Of Day credit card, bank deposit,
etc.), consolidate the actual amount with the fiures in Z Report
from each shift.

(2) Check and

(3) If float control and media adjustment (VisualPOS only) are
processed, read and check the report for outstanding adjustment
and balance on each medium.

(4) Fill End Of Day report based on Amount at Begin Of Day, each
shift total, and End Of Day, and their comments if any.  If
using float control, fill in the comment on the outstanding
adjustment and balance.

(5) Repeat (3) and (4) for multi shift Z Report.

(6) File all printed Z Reports, comments, and End Of Day
reports.

(7) Run, print and zero Daily Sale report (VisualPOS, not
necessary if carried weekly or monthly, or not at all).

(8) Run, print Operator Sales Report (VisualPOS, not necessary
if carried weekly or monthly, or not at all).

15.3.6 End Of Week -- Store Manager or Owner
--------------------------------------------

(1) Run, print and zero Daily Sale report (VisualPOS, not
necessary if carried daily or monthly, or not at all).

(2) Run, print Operator Sales Report (VisualPOS, not necessary
if carried daily or monthly, or not at all).

(3) Backup system, server backup.

15.3.7 Month End Report -- Store Manager or Owner
-------------------------------------------------

(1) Run, print and zero Daily Sale report (VisualPOS, not
necessary if carried weekly or monthly, or not at all).

(2) Run, print Operator Sales Report (VisualPOS, not necessary
if    carried weekly or monthly, or not at all).

(3) Backup system, server backup.

(4) Delete Receipt Journal and Sales files (After backup!).

(5) Run, print and zero Month To Date Report (MTD, VisualPOS).

(6) Month end accounting, and compile printed Z Reports for
month end.

15.3.8 Year End Report -- Store Manager or Owner
------------------------------------------------

(1) Backup system, server backup.

(2) Merge Z Report from all registers to the server (VisualPOS).

(3) Run merged Z Report and Tax Report of the business year
(VisualPOS), or compile and merge all the printed Z Report for
the year end.

(4) Year end accounting.

(5) Run, print and zero Year To Date Report (YTD, VisualPOS).

(6) Delete Receipt Journal, Sales and Z Report files (After
backup!).

15.3.9 Gas Pump Control End of Day procedure
--------------------------------------------
This section is striped out on this disk Menual to save space.

15.3.10 Gas Pump Control End of Week or Month procedure
-------------------------------------------------------
This section is striped out on this disk Menual to save space.

15.3.11 Multi register update
-----------------------------

The VisualPOS multi register operation is almost identical to
that of the single register.  Only database (inventory,
customer, vendor, and operation) files and associated
information are shared directly with the Master (server), and
only the exporting ASCII sales files (SALES.*, if enabled to
generate) are written to the Master.  All other setups are
configured independently, and all the Journal/X/Z Report files
are written locally to their VisualPOS directory. This makes the
setup/configuration to be more flexible.  Different register may
have different configuration on the network for different needs.

For example, a department store may have four lanes of POS
outlets. It therefore has four VisualPOS set up identically for
each outlet, one VisualPOS register configured differently to be
dedicated for customer service and return, one for auto service,
one for in-store photo service, and one for in-store coffee
shop...  This register 'independency' makes the store planning
much more flexible, but does add some extra care and operation
for the maintenance and update.  The best way to save on the
extra procedures is to use batches.  Whenever any configuration
change is made by the server, every other registers should
invoke a batch (created separately and independently for this
particular register) to get the updated information or changes.
In the above instance, changes in POS key map, or receipt
message, or printer setup, should be updated across the four
lane outlet registers; and changes in tax table, currency and
conversion, quantity-split pricing, should be updated across all
registers.  The setup files that should be considered to be
updated across the network are:

(1) *.RRC,

(2) *.REP, and

(3) SETUP.HC$ and MACRO.HC$.

You should NEVER (never!) update the following two files
-"REGISTER.REC" and "SYSCONFG.REC"!  Receipt journal files and
X/Z Reporting files are written under the similar concept.  For
VisualPOS summary reports on all registers on Taxes and Merged
Z Report, the file "*.Z??" and "XZINFO.HC$" must be
copied/updated to the server (or the register where the report
will be generated).

Please note that you should NEVER set two different registers
the same register number, or the run time generated transaction,
journal, and Z Report files will be overwritten!  When the
system configuration is changed, you should manually walk though
all the other registers (if require the same changes) and make
changes instead of "updating" through DOS copying. The user
registration information file is the WIZ-TEC authorization
record file to validate the legal use in the particular
register. Each VisualPOS register MUST has its own unique user
registration and information file (with different serial number
and authorization).

Following is a list of files that should be considered (in
general, may vary depending on the register's dedication and the
type of change) to be updated to other registers whenever
changes are made.

    File name    Description                   Should update
    CURRENCY.REC     currency and credit card definition          UPDATE
    GRPDEPT.REC      department and sub-department definition     UPDATE
    QTYSPLIT.REC     split pricing definition file                 UPDATE
    QUANTITY.REC     quantity pricing definition file              UPDATE
    TAX.REC          tax definition, tax table and setup file      UPDATE
    PUMPINIT.REC     PIE pump control definition/setup file        UPDATE
    GASWASH.REC      EXACT pump control definition/reporting       UPDATE
    PUMPREAD.REC     PIE pump control reading total report file  UPDATE
    RECEIPT.LIB      receipt printer driver library                 UPDATE
    REPORT.LIB       report printer driver library                 UPDATE
    TAX.LIB          taxes and tax table library                   UPDATE
    SETUP.HC$       compiled file of system setup/definitions     UPDATE
    PRINTSET.REC     receipt/report printer definition file       MAY BE
    PRNTCODE.REC     compiled printer definition file       same as above
    CARDEOD.REC      credit card processing end of day file        MAY BE
    MESSAGES.REC     receipt printing message definition file      MAY BE
    AUTOBATH.REC     Auto Batch definition file                    MAY BE
    AUTOPOS.REC      compiled Auto Batch definition file    same as above
    MACROS.HC$       compiled file of key and macro definitions  MAY BE
    REGISTER.REC     the user registration information file        NEVER
    SYSCONFG.REC     the register definition/configuration file  NEVER
    PUMPSALE.REC     PIE pump control transaction file             NEVER
    PUMPREPT.REC     PIE pump control sales summary and report     NEVER
    BARLABEL.REC     VisualPOS label definition file              UPDATE
    INVENTRY.REP     VisualPOS inventory report definition file  UPDATE
    CUSTOMER.REP     VisualPOS customer report definition file   UPDATE
    VENDOR.REP       VisualPOS vendor report definition file      UPDATE
    OPERATOR.REP     VisualPOS operator report definition file   UPDATE
    INVOICE.*        VisualPOS invoice definition/script file     UPDATE

Following is a list of files that should be updated to the
server (or the reporting register) from all the other registers
when performing merged Z Report or Tax report with VisualPOS.

    File name    Description    Should update

    XZINFO.HC$    current shift/day Z Report recording files    UPDATE
    *.Z??          previous individual shift/day Z Report files  UPDATE
    TRXZINFO.HC$  current shift/day Z Report files in training  NEVER
    JOURNAL.HC$   current receipt journal file                  NEVER
    *.J??          previous individual shift/day receipt journalsNEVER
    SALES.R??     record based ASCII sales export file          AUTO
    SALES.X??     script and record based ASCII sales export file AUTO

15.3.12 Files to be backed up and the procedures
------------------------------------------------

Please check the file list at the beginning of the Manual for
your data file descriptions.  Each backup should include the
following types of files (under DOS naming convention) to be
physically copied outside the register. For networked
multi-register system, you may only backup the server.  But, we
suggest you to backup these files to a backup server
(Sub-Master) for security redundancy. Backup to a tape drive, a
floppy disks, or another computer.

(1) "*.DAT", "*.IDX" and "*.P" for database files

(2) "*.REC", "MACRO.HC$" and "SETUP.HC$" for system setup files


(3) "*.REP" for report definition files (not necessary if not
changed)

(4) "INVOICE.*" for invoice definition files (not necessary if
not changed)

(5) "JOURNAL.HC$" and "*.J??" for POS receipt journals

(6) "XZINFO.HC$" and "*.Z??" for Z Report files

(7) "SALES.*" for ASCII transaction exporting files (not
necessary if not used or generated)

Under the VisualPOS concept of Sub-Master in the network
environment, these files should also be backed up to the backup
server (the Sub-Master) computer, either in a dedicated
directory, or directly updated/copied into the VisualPOS path if
identical to the Master.  Note that you should NEVER copy the
file "SYSCONFG.REC" and "REGISTER.REC" across the registers!



                 APPENDIX A  POINT OF SALE FUNCTIONS
                 ===================================

[ 0 ]    Single Zero -- Place the single zero on a key.
[ 00     Double Zero -- Place the double zero on a key.
[ . ]       Decimal -- Place the decimal on a key.
[$DIS]    Dollar Discount -- Grant a discount of a dollar amount.
[%DIS]    Percentage Discount -- Grant a discount of a percentage amount.
[AMT]    Amount/Enter -- Enter a value/amount following a system prompt.
[AUTO]    Auto Price -- Sell or return an item for the default
inventory price.
[BACKSPACE] Backspace -- Remove the last character typed.
[BLANK] Blank Out Key -- Remove previous function assigned to the key.
[CARD]    Credit Card Tendered -- Charge a purchase to a credit card.
[CASH]    Cash Tendered -- Receive cash to pay for a purchase.
[CHRG]    Charge to Account -- Charge a purchase to store a account.
[CHEQ]    Cheque Tendered -- Receive a cheque to pay for a purchase.
[CLR]    Clear Entry -- Clear the sequence of keys currently in progress.
[CRED]    Credit a Card -- Enter an amount to credit to a credit card.
[CURR]    Currency Conversion --  Convert from a foreign currency/funds.
[CUS#]    Customer Number -- Login/lookup a customer before transaction.
[DEBT]    Debit a Credit Card -- Enter an amount to debit a credit card.
[DPST]    Deposit -- Record payment of a deposit on an item.
[DRET]    Deposit Returned -- Return a deposit previously paid on.
[EXEC]    Execute Batch -- Execute a defined Auto-Batch/DOS program.
[HELP]    Help -- View the help info. about POS functions assigned to keys.
[ILU]    Item Look Up -- Look up information about an item.
[INVC]    Print Invoice -- Print Invoice on demand to report printer.
[INVU]    Set Invoice -- Set invoice definition for next transaction invoicing.
[INVM]    Invoice Message -- Enable/disable invoice message prompt
[INVY]    Eidt Inventory -- Add/edit/delete inventory database.
[CUST]    Edit Customer -- Add/edit/delete customer database.
[DEPT]    Set Department -- Set current/default department.
[TDEP]    Auto Department -- Toggle auto department ON or OFF.
[DTRN]    Department sell -- Open item (department) transaction
[KYLK]    Key Lock -- Lock to menu selection for system operations.
[LNDN]    Line Down -- Scroll journal up one line.
[LNUP]    Line Up -- Scroll journal down one line.
[LOG]    Log On/Log Off -- Log on and log off the VisualPOS.
[MCRO]    Macro Key Definition -- Place a defined macro on a key.
[NO$]    No Sale -- Open the cash drawer.
[OPEN]    Open Item Definition -- Define a key for open items (sub-depts).
[PACK]    Package Sale -- Sell a group of items for package price.
[PAID]    Paid Out -- Complete a paid out transaction.
[PGDN]    Page Down -- Scroll the journal down one transaction.
[PGUP]    Page Up -- Scroll the journal up one transaction.
[PLU]    Price Look Up -- Look up the price of an inventory item.
[POVR]    Price Override -- Override the price level to be charged.
[PRCE]    Price Level Change Set Price Level (1 to 3).
[PRNT]    Print Receipt  Print a receipt for a customer.
[QTY]    Quantity   Sell more than one unit of an item.
[RACC]    Received Account -- Receive payment toward customer's account.
[RCPT]    Receipt Advance -- Advance the one line on receipt printer.
[REF]    Reference Entry -- Place a reference number on the receipt.
[RET]    Return Merchandise Return items that were previously sold.
[SCAL]    Scale Request -- Force the weighing of an item.
[SCPN]    Store Coupon -- Receive a store coupon for discount.
[SCRL]    Scroll Display -- Scroll display when all info. doesn't appear.
[SHFT]    Shift Macro -- Execute a macro with the next macro number.
[SUB]    Sub Total -- Display the Subtotal of transaction including taxes.
[TAX]    Tax Level Override -- Override the taxes for the next item sold.
[TYPE]    Type of Credit Card -- Identify the credit card type for purchase.
[UPC]    UPC sale -- Identify the item to be sold by its UPC number.
[VAL]    Validate Document -- Validate a document with the date time.
[VCPN]    Vendor Coupon -- Receive vendor coupon tender for the purchase.
[VITM]    Void Item -- Void the sale of an item in transaction.
[VTRN]    Void Transaction -- Cancel the current transaction.
----------- The followings are for PIE GasPump Control Only
[AUTH]    PIE Authorize -- Authorize a pump despensing request.
[STOP]    PIE Stop --  Suspend/emergency stop a pump operation.
[RESM]    PIE Resume -- Resume a previous pump suspension/stop.
[CERR]    PIE Error -- Clear a pump error message.
[READ]    PIE Status -- Read/re-fresh a pump to the POS screen.
[PPU ]    PIE P.P.U. -- Send Price (PPU) to all pumps.
[SAVE]    PIE Stack -- Stack/Save current pump transaction.
[LOOK]    PIE Lookup -- Pump status/transaction lookup/scroll.
[$TRN]    PIE Sell -- Ring pump current transaction in POS.
[$CLR]    PIE Clear -- Clear pump current transaction in POS.
[XTRN]    PIE X-Sell -- Ring pump stacked/saved transaction in POS.
[XCLR]    PIE X-Clear -- Clear pump stacked/saved transaction.
[PSET]    PIE Setups -- View pump setup/grade/price information.
[CRD$]    PIE Credit$ -- Set authorization credit price limit.
[CSH$]    PIE Cash$ -- Set authorization cash price limit.
[CRDV]    PIE CreditVol -- Set authorization credit volume limit.
[CSHV]    PIE CashVol -- Set authorization cash volume limit.
[NLMT]    PIE No Limit -- Set authorization to no limit (fill-up).
[RLMT]    PIE Restore Limit -- Set authorization to default limit setup.
[METR]    PIE Save Readings -- Read/save the pump total readings.
[VMTR]    PIE View Readings -- Read the previous pump total readings.
[VADJ]    PIE View Adjustment -- View pump transaction/adjust summary.
[VRPT]    PIE View Report -- View pump transaction summary report.
[REST]    PIE Reset -- Reset PIE pump controller and pumps.
[PATH]    PIE Pre-Auth Pump -- Pre-authorize a pump despensing.
----------- The followings are for EXACT GasPump Control Only
[PUMP]    EXACT Lookup --  Pump status/transaction lookup/scroll.
[PMUP]    EXACT Authorize -- Authorize a pump despensing request.
[PMZR]    EXACT Reset/Zero -- Reset/re-fresh pump status.
[PMTR]    EXACT Sale -- Ring pump transaction in POS.
[PMOK]    EXACT Auto -- Auto pump operation process.
[TANK]    EXACT Tank Lookup -- Pump tank information lookup.
[WASH]    EXACT Wash Authorize -- Car wash authorize.


              APPENDIX B  OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT SETUP
              ====================================

Laser Scanner
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Metrologic MS700 or compatible
Baud Rate: 2400
Parity   : None
Data Bits: 8
Stop Bits: 1
No check sum digit
Terminate with Carriage Return and Line Feed

Electronic Scale
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Toledo 8213-0027 or compatible
Baud Rate: 2400
Parity: Even
Data Bits, 7
Stop Bits: 1

Magnetic Strip Card Reader
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The card reader for approval of credit card transactions should
be an SDMS model  MAG100K, or compatible, in order to use the
credit card authorization software.  This is the wedge style of
reader, which plugs in between the keyboard and  computer.
Keyboards with built-in card readers may also be acceptable.
The required features of the reader are that it read Track 2 on
the cards' magnetic strip and that it send a Carriage Return
after reading the data.  Consult the manual that came with the
reader forcomplete set up information.

Customer Display Unit
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
SDMS serial port customer display unit. Please check the newest
software update for full secondary customer display support.